Pune: In a landmark development for animal healthcare, Deputy Chief Minister and Pune District Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar inaugurated the nation’s first mobile veterinary hospital in Hadapsar, Pune. The launch event saw the presence of notable dignitaries, including MLA Chetan Tupe, Pune Municipal Corporation Assistant Commissioner Balasaheb Dhawale, and Universal Animal Welfare Society leaders Dr. Hanumant Shelke and Dr. Swati Jogdand Shelke.
Founded in 2009 in Beed district by veterinary duo Dr. Hanumant Shelke and Dr. Swati Jogdand Shelke, the Universal Animal Welfare Society is at the forefront of animal health initiatives in Maharashtra. Their latest project—the mobile veterinary hospital—aims to eliminate rabies across the state by the year 2030.
This mobile unit is a response to the critical issues plaguing rural regions, such as an uncontrolled stray dog population, frequent dog bite incidents, insufficient veterinary infrastructure, and lack of accommodation for medical staff. With this initiative, essential veterinary services are being extended to underserved areas throughout Maharashtra.
Spanning nearly 2,000 square meters, the mobile hospital is equipped to perform up to 500 surgeries each month and can house around 100 dogs. The first floor provides residential facilities for 10 staff members, ensuring round-the-clock operations.
The hospital features a modern operation theatre, an outpatient department (OPD), a multi-use conference room, kitchen, records archive, consultation chamber, and a state-of-the-art, air-conditioned surgical suite. It also operates using solar energy, making it an eco-friendly initiative.
Services offered include OPD consultations, emergency medical aid, vaccinations, and sterilization procedures—making it a comprehensive mobile healthcare solution for animals.
This pioneering project sets a new benchmark in veterinary care and signifies a major stride towards a rabies-free Maharashtra.
