Bhubaneswar: The Institute of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry (IVSAH), under the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences at Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (SOA) Deemed to be University, has introduced a state-of-the-art Spa and Grooming Centre dedicated to the care of pet dogs and cats.
According to IVSAH dean Sushanta Kumar Das, the facility aims to provide professional management and wellness services for companion animals, with highly trained groomers operating under the close supervision of experienced veterinarians. The centre boasts modern, air-conditioned facilities equipped with the latest amenities, he noted.
SOA Vice-Chancellor Prof. Pradipta Kumar Nanda emphasized the importance of veterinary care, stating, “Animals and birds are sentient beings unable to voice their discomfort. It falls to veterinarians to interpret their issues and alleviate their suffering.”
He added that the new centre will significantly contribute to reducing the distress of these animals.
Chief Medical Officer at IVSAH Niranjan Sahu highlighted the health risks associated with neglecting pet grooming, particularly in India’s tropical climate. “Natural processes like hair shedding, oil secretion, ear wax buildup, and nail growth can lead to unhygienic conditions if ignored. The warm, variable weather also promotes the spread of ectoparasites such as ticks, lice, and fleas, which can transmit serious diseases including babesiosis, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis—potentially causing fatal multi-organ failure,” he said.
The services available at the centre include washing, hair cutting, nail cutting, ear cleaning, face styling, detangling and hair brushing for all types of breeds, viz. small, medium and large. Pet owners can customize haircuts for long-haired breeds and opt for additional premium services, Sahu said.
He further explained the broader health benefits: Professional grooming prevents matting, removes dead skin and debris, boosts blood circulation, minimizes shedding, clears parasites to avoid reinfestation, and aids in early detection of skin issues, lumps, warts, or infections. Regular nail trimming helps prevent posture problems, arthritis, and skeletal deformities, while ear cleaning reduces the risk of infections and aural hematomas.
“Regular visits to the centre ensure the pet remains shiny and healthy,” he added.
The centre operates on weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm at IVSAH, located on Campus-4 of SOA University. Interested pet owners can visit the facility or contact them at 76089 21777, he informed.
