Surat News : Stray Dogs Haunts New Civil Hospital, Raising Safety Concerns

SURAT, GUJARAT : Surat, the diamond city of Gujarat, glitters with prosperity. However, a shadow of concern hangs over the city’s healthcare system, particularly at the New Civil Hospital (NCH) located at Majura Gate.  This government-run facility, the only one offering treatment for dog bites, is ironically plagued by a stray dog menace.

The presence of stray dogs roaming freely within the hospital wards has become a cause for alarm for patients and their families.  A recent video circulated on social media depicts these canines wandering near the G-0 ward, causing panic among patients recovering from various ailments.

“It’s unsettling to see these dogs freely roaming around the hospital,” says Darshil Pradhan, a relative of a patient at NCH. “There’s a constant fear of them carrying diseases, especially rabies, which can be fatal.”

Adding to the confusion is the lax security. “There are security guards posted outside the wards,” says Rohini,  another worried visitor, “but they don’t seem bothered by the dogs.  It’s unclear how these animals even get inside the hospital in the first place.”

Another patient’s relatives, Shailesh Nayi said, “Stray dogs follow you if you carry some food items along. IT is fearful, especially for the small children at the hospital wards”

This situation is not new.  Reports of stray dogs roaming the hospital have surfaced previously, raising questions about hygiene and patient safety.  The anxiety is justified – a dog bite not only inflicts physical pain but also carries the risk of contracting rabies, a potentially life-threatening disease.

Looking for Solutions

The issue of stray dog management is not unique to Surat.  Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) recently implemented a policy for pets and stray dogs. This policy mandates mandatory licensing for keeping dogs at home and lays down guidelines for responsible pet ownership.  Additionally, the AMC plans to implement a system of barcodes outside houses with resident dogs to facilitate tracking and control.

A Call to Action

The situation at NCH demands immediate action from the hospital authorities. Measures like stricter perimeter control, humane dog catching and sterilization programs, and collaboration with animal welfare organizations are crucial.  Learning from cities like Ahmedabad can provide a roadmap for effective stray dog management.