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Indian American vets discuss rabies control strategies in India
The organization discussed strategies as part of its 'Mission Rabies' work involving vaccination, training, and community outreach.
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Staff Reporter - Thu, 29, Jan 2026
- 11:07 EST
- 23
Members of the American Association of Veterinarians of Indian Origin (AAVIO) / Courtesy: AAVIO
The American Association of Veterinarians of Indian Origin (AAVIO) reviewed its ongoing efforts on rabies prevention and humane stray dog population management during its National AAVIO Meet in Orlando.
The meeting, which took place along the sidelines of VMX 2026, brought together members and industry stakeholders to assess current approaches to rabies control and veterinary collaboration.
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The meeting focused on practical, science-based strategies and the role of coordinated action among veterinarians, public health stakeholders, and industry partners.
AAVIO president Ravi Murarka, shared updates on the organization’s engagement with ‘Mission Rabies.’ He outlined key activities discussed at the meeting, including mass dog vaccination campaigns, veterinary training initiatives, and community education efforts aimed at reducing the risk of dog-mediated rabies. AAVIO noted that these combined measures remain central to effective rabies control strategies.
Ravi Murarka, president of AAVIO, addressing the gathering / Courtesy: AAVIOParticipants also reviewed evidence presented during the meeting showing that sustained vaccination coverage, when paired with humane Animal Birth Control (ABC) programs, is the most effective method for managing rabies risk and stray dog populations. The association reiterated that approaches based on vaccination and sterilization are more effective than indiscriminate or reactive measures.
The meeting included discussions on policy and governance frameworks relevant to stray dog population management. AAVIO referenced the importance of adhering to established, science-backed guidelines that emphasize vaccination, sterilization, and responsible implementation as part of humane population control practices.
As part of its industry engagement during VMX 2026, AAVIO also held discussions with Rajeev Modi, executive vice president, U.S. pet health and global digital transformation at Elanco Animal Health Inc.
The conversation focused on challenges in stray dog population management and explored potential industry support for spay-neuter initiatives as part of a sustainable and evidence-based approach. Elanco expressed interest in reviewing possible avenues of support and continuing dialogue with AAVIO.
“These discussions—whether with our members or industry partners—reflect AAVIO’s mission to bridge veterinary science, industry collaboration, and public health responsibility,” Murarka said. "Rabies control and stray dog population management must be addressed through reason, compassion, and evidence-based solutions. AAVIO remains committed to contributing meaningfully to this global effort," he added.
AAVIO said the meeting reinforced its commitment to advancing collaborative, humane, and scientifically grounded strategies through continued engagement with veterinarians and industry partners.
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