September 09: Hundreds of stray dogs were vaccinated against rabies today as Bhutan observed the world rabies day. The day was observed for the first time in Bhutan.

It was observed in various parts of the kingdom. The theme this year is rabies is a killer disease yet preventable through vaccination of dogs and cats.

The day is observed globally to create awareness and to prevent unnecessary human and animal deaths from rabies.

In the capital, the Department of Livestock organized a rabies vaccination campaign at the National Animal Hospital as part of the day’s activities.

Thimphu residents also brought their pet dogs and cats to get vaccinated against rabies.

The director of the Department of Livestock, Tenzin Dhendup said owing to the huge stray dog population, combating rabies outbreak remains a challenge, especially in the border areas.

Livestock officials also briefed the students of Motithang middle secondary school on rabies.

In Bhutan, three people died of rabies related complications last year. Rabies is not curable. However it can be prevented through regular vaccination of pets and stray dogs.

Rabies is a disease which originated from dogs. It is transmitted through saliva and animal bites.