The scorching heat of 47 degree Celsius in the city has taken a toll on birds and animals who too require special care in the month of June. Moved by their plight, in his latest letter to all government offices and Punjab Agricultural University, Deputy Commissioner Rajat Aggarwal has rapped officials for being negligent towards his orders. The letter says, “All offices were ordered to keep a fresh bowl of water daily for birds in soaring summers but it has been noticed that orders are not being adhered to.” The DC has also asked PAU Vice-Chancellor in his letter to ensure “varsity keeps water bowls on all its buildings for birds to quench their thirst”. Experts say that pets and animals need special care in summer season. Ludhiana zoo is also providing ice slabs and water coolers to tigers, bears and other animals, according to district forest officer Daljit Singh Brar. Dr Sandeep Jain, member of the Animal Welfare Board of India, said, “Dogs should not be kept outdoors as they get dehydrated. They can also be provided with ice slabs to lay on which helps in respiring as they breathe through tongues.” Dogs and cattle can easily fall prey to vomiting, loose motions and diarrhoea. Cows should be provided with salt pieces in food along with fodder to avoid salt deficiency in the body in summers. “Birds should be given adequate water. Water can also be mixed with Glucon-D and B-complex to give energy as they fly throughout the day. Birds faint while flying and they should be immediately attended to. They should be given five drops of B-complex and ORS (water, salt and sugar) for instant energy,” said Vipan Bhatia from Pakshi Sewa Samiti. Almost 22 birds have fallen prey to dehydration and fainting since the beginning of June and admitted to PSS. “They are recovering and we are freeing them as they are getting well to fly again,” said Bhatia.
