First of its kind National Symposium on Pet Animal Practice begins at Veterinary Faculty Shuhama

Ganderbal, Apr 25: The 20TH Annual Convention of Indian Society for Advancement of Canine Practice and National Symposium was inaugurated on Thursday at SKUAST-K’s Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, Shuhama campus.
The theme of the Symposium is ‘Insights on Latest Developments in Companion Animal Practice and Health Care Management’. More than 200 delegates comprising of pet animal practitioners, researchers and extensionists from across the country are attending the Symposium. The inaugural function was presided over by Dr Inderji Singh, Vice-Chancellor, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University Ludhiana as Chief Guest.
At the outset, Dean of the Veterinary Faculty Prof MT Banday welcomed the guests and the delegates. He also talked about the notable achievements of the scientists in the field of Pet Animal Medicine. President of the Society Dr Prathaban presented the presidential address. He expressed satisfaction over the arrangements and hospitality of the organizers.
He elaborated on the role of disruptive technologies and new business models for pet animal health, and a need to restructure the Veterinary Education Curriculum making it at par with international standards. A compendium of scientific abstracts and a book on Vets as essential health workers authored by Dr Mansoor and Dr Zahid were released.
Best researchers in various categories of Pet Animal Medicine were awarded during the function. Special prayers were held for Pet Animal Stalwart Dr Srivastava who is feeling unwell. Director Education SKUAST-K Dr DM Makhdoomi emphasised on maintaining the balance with nature for a healthy society.
He advocated for Natural and Chemical Free farming for longevity and health of resources and the people. Former Vice-Chancellor, Dr Balchandran in his key note address said that this symposium is a platform to exchange experience and expertise, and provides an excellent opportunity to new generation students to explore research areas in the field of Pet Animal Medicine.
Vice-Chancellor SKUAST-Kashmir, Prof Nazir A Ganai, in his address thanked the association for choosing SKUAST as the venue for the Symposium, the University that is known for standard teaching and research ecosystem in the country and beyond. He said, Vets are the best doctors in the world as they can’t ask the patients what is the matter they have got to just know., and the animal health sector contributes significantly to regional economy and the One Health. He added that we have to embrace disruptive technologies to stay relevant in the changing global scenario.
Chief Guest of the occasion Dr Inderjit Singh in his special address said that vets are essential health workers and play a crucial role in global health.
This Symposium underscores the need for venturing into the Pet Animal Health business, and introducing Pet Animal Special Courses during the undergrad level will help develop sector specific competent human capital. He also stressed on efficient control of stray dogs for better public health, and advocated formation of NGOs for tackling this menace. Organizing Secretary Dr Amatul Muhee presented the vote of thanks.