Baguio: The city government has successfully vaccinated over 24,000 dogs and cats against the fatal rabies virus in the first semester of this year, as part of its public safety measures. Dr. Silardo Bested, head of the city veterinary and agriculture office (CVAO), announced that the initiative includes 17,788 dogs and 6,266 cats receiving vaccinations.
According to Philippines News Agency, CVAO personnel conduct biannual visits to the city's 128 barangays to administer free vaccinations. "We have been doing this for years now and this will continue to ensure public safety especially with some dogs still seen roaming the streets," Dr. Bested stated in a press release.
The city's ordinance requires registration of at least 60,000 dogs, emphasizing responsible pet ownership. Pets must be vaccinated when they reach three months of age, with the anti-rabies vaccine providing protection for one year. Previously, a vaccination fee of PHP80 was charged, but it has been waived after securing sufficient funding.
In addition to the vaccination efforts, Mayor Benjamin Magalong has directed the CVAO to enhance animal impounding activities to curb the presence of stray dogs on the streets. The mayor has voiced his displeasure with irresponsible pet owners who allow their dogs to roam and defecate on public roads without cleaning up.
Several barangays have been tasked with acting as impounding agents to bolster the CVAO's personnel and clear the streets of stray animals. The city's impounding facility can accommodate 70 animals, with owners facing a PHP500 charge on the first day and an additional PHP50 per day. Animals become eligible for adoption after the third day.
During a recent media forum at City Hall, Wilson Malingan, Veterinarian IV of the CVAO, mentioned that the mayor has also ordered intensified sterilization efforts for dogs and cats. Cat sterilization is currently free, while dog owners are charged subsidized rates of PHP1,000 for males and PHP1,500 for females. The CVAO is advocating for barangays to collaborate with them to organize community-based spay and neuter activities.
