Intense heat wave takes toll of animals, birds in Gujarat

AHMEDABAD - Veterinarians and volunteers in Gujarat are taking special care of the animals and birds to safeguard them from the intense heat wave that has gripped the country.

The sun has affected the highflying birds in particular.

“Mostly kites, eagles, pigeons, parrot. They are suffering from heat stroke, sunstroke or dehydration. The heat affects birds more than men because they fly at high altitudes and bear the brunt of the sun,” said Harmesh Bhatt, member of the Asha Foundation, an animal shelter and hospital.

It is common for animals to suffer from fungal infections, dehydration, sunstrokes, ulcers, eye infections, and gastric disorders in these high temperatures.

“Our veterinarians provide antibiotics first of all, for dehydration or sunstrokes, then multivitamins and keep them in a cool place. At that time they need to be kept at a cool place rather than food,” he added.

Because of the heat, lakes and other water bodies have been reduced to parched land, making sunburns and dehydration common in animals.

There is also a huge shortage of experts and doctors, who can treat animals affected by heat illnesses. (ANI)