TABUK CITY, Kalinga – Reinforcing the battle cry against rabies, Tabuk City vaccinated around 370 dogs, including cats, in celebration of the World Rabies Day.
Free pet services like deworming, castration and pet consultation at the Diocesan Center, Bulanao Norte, Tabuk City, Kalinga were also offered.
According to Dr. Anthony Bantog, Livestock Coordinator, the mission aims to minimize rabies cases in Kalinga having sustained positive cases of rabies for almost six years since 2011.
Through continuous mass vaccination and information dissemination campaigns, rabies can be eliminated with a target of at least 80% of the dog population as initial steps in aiming the goal of Rabies Free Philippines by 2020.
Further, seeking to reach more numbers of dogs, four teams were formed, composed of veterinarians, recorder, and a guide. Each team was detailed in different sites in Magsaysay, Tabuk City for continuous mass vaccination since it has recorded one positive case of rabies.
Dr. Fermin Quinto, City Veterinarian said that pet owners are well informed on rabies, however, knowledge alone does not alter behavior. “We have to stimulate public interest by giving emphasis on the free services given, such as vaccination, flyers and laboratory examination of possible rabid dog cases as part of the various activities undertaken” he reiterated.
“This year we have framed resolutions declaring that there will be no house-to-house vaccination, and pet owners have to request vaccination service in their respective barangays. This is to boost pet owners’ responsibility to bringing their pets for vaccination. It is time for them to do their part and demonstrate their love for their pets”, he furthered.
Thelma Mendoza, one of the pet owners affirmed that this endeavor to combat rabies is a great help to the community. Through this, they are being educated on the responsibilities of a pet owner which does not end merely by feeding their pets, but giving them the proper care needed, which aids to lessen rabies cases in their place.
By JFP