KATHMANDU, JUNE 8

Nepal Veterinary Association, umbrella organisation of Nepali veterinarians, has started a 24-hour telephone consultancy service for animal care-takers amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

The service has come into effect from Tuesday.

Following the initiation, animal care-takers across the country, including pet owners, can directly call 1159, which is a toll-free number.

The service is being initiated by support of NI,MBUS, the first pellet feed mill of the country.

Consultant vets, who are the members of the Association, will be attending calls seven days a week and 24 hours a day.

"Since movement has been restricted in almost all parts of the country, putting the animal care-takers in a difficult situation, the association came up with the idea of telephonic helpline. This service will at least be continued throughout the pandemic, " the Association said in a press release.

The service will provide emergency consultation to the needy group.

It has been learnt that the association has publicised around 300 phone numbers of veterinarians in addition to the consultation and this facility can be extended to video consultation as well.