UNIFIL Indian peacekeepers recently organized a vaccination event for pet animals in the village of Suq al Khan, south-eastern Lebanon, helping to protect 95 dogs and 10 cats against rabies and other diseases.
 
Despite the ongoing exchanges of fire, many people – and their pets – remain in their villages in south Lebanon. In addition to their operational duties, peacekeepers continue to support them and help address local needs.
 
The daylong vaccination event was organized at the request of local authorities and opened jointly by UNIFIL’s Sector East Commander Brig. Gen. Garcia Del Barrio and President of the Union of Hasbani Municipalities, Mr. Sami al-Safadi. It benefitted pet lovers from 13 nearby villages.

Commending the “strong turnout”, Indian Battalion Commander Colonel Ajit Singh Negi said to pet owners, “Through your active participation, you have not only safeguarded the health of your own pets but have also contributed to the broader goal of creating a healthier environment for all.”
 
“As we move forward, let us continue to work together to promote responsible pet ownership and animal health,” he continued. “By doing so, we can build stronger, more resilient communities where both humans and animals thrive.”
 
Mr. al-Safadi expressed appreciation for the effort of UNIFIL Sector East and Indian peacekeepers in helping with different local needs during these challenging times.
 
The vaccination event provided an important opportunity for peacekeepers to connect directly with locals who have stayed in the south. It was an important local health and safety measure as more than 80 per cent of them own a pet or livestock. Indian peacekeepers continue to regularly organize veterinary and medical camps to help people in their areas of responsibility in south-eastern Lebanon.