Sat Sep 27 16:34:43 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing and rewriting the provided text, suitable for a Chennai-based audience:

**Chennai Animal Welfare Groups Intensify Rabies Vaccinations Amidst Rising Concerns**

**Chennai, September 27, 2025** – In light of recent disturbing rabies-related deaths and a Supreme Court order concerning street dogs, animal welfare organizations across Chennai are intensifying their efforts to combat the deadly disease through widespread vaccination drives. The heightened activity coincides with World Rabies Day on September 28th, whose theme this year is “Act now: you, me, communities” as promoted by the World Health Organisation.

Blue Cross of India, People for Cattle in India (PFCI), and HeavenForAnimals are among the NGOs spearheading these efforts. Blue Cross of India is revisiting Kannagi Nagar on September 28th for a follow-up vaccination camp for strays, having focused this year on areas outside Greater Chennai Corporation limits, including Avadi. PFCI has set a target of administering 100 vaccines on World Rabies Day, targeting both dogs and cats in Ambatur and Avadi. HeavenForAnimals is planning a large-scale vaccination drive in October, commencing at a school in Chetpet before expanding to other locations.

VinodKumaaar Sankara Panicker, general manager of Blue Cross of India, emphasizes the importance of annual vaccination drives for achieving real immunity in stray animals. He noted that last year his organization vaccinated 5,000 dogs. This year they have an expanded goal of 8,500 dogs. Thanks to support from the HCL Foundation.

These organizations are facing challenges such as vaccine costs and manpower. However, they are committed to protecting both animals and humans from the threat of rabies. Dr. Arun Pari, a veterinary consultant, advises that individuals bitten by stray dogs should seek immediate rabies vaccination and a multi-antigen shot. The first rabies shot is best given within 24 hours of being bitten.

Animal welfare advocates are urging Chennai residents to participate in vaccination efforts, either by attending free camps or pooling resources to take community dogs to veterinary hospitals. These camps typically mark vaccinated dogs with a vegetable dye.

By working together, Chennai’s animal welfare groups hope to create a rabies-free environment for both animals and people.

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