FILE PHOTO: In this September 28, 2020, photo, an anti-rabies shot is given to a cat in Gagalangin, Tondo, Manila in observance of World Rabies Day. On March 23, 2024, at least 150 pets received free anti-rabies shots, castration, and spaying in Las Piñas City and Bacoor City in Cavite province courtesy of Senator Cynthia Villar’s quarterly “Libreng Kapon at Ligate” project that aims to promote responsible pet ownership and achieve rabies-free communities. INQUIRER / MARIANNE BERMUDEZ
MANILA, Philippines — At least 150 pets received free anti-rabies shots, castration, and spaying in Las Piñas City and Bacoor City in Cavite province on March 23.
The activity was conducted under Senator Cynthia Villar’s quarterly “Libreng Kapon at Ligate” project to promote responsible pet ownership and achieve rabies-free communities.
According to Villar, more than 300 people died due to rabies infection in 2023.
“Rabies is the most acutely fatal infectious disease transmitted through bites of stray dogs and cats. Rabies is also a public health problem despite the availability of rabies vaccines,” she said in a statement Monday.
“The incidence of rabies is highest in Metro Manila and surrounding areas,” she also emphasized.
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Villar said castration and spaying of dogs and cats, as well as giving them anti-rabies vaccines, are part of the responsibilities of fur parents, apart from providing food and supplies and grooming.
The senator said pet owners must ensure their fur babies are not a nuisance to others.
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“Our pet dog or cat should always be on a leash or under the control of a responsible adult when outside of their premises. Responsible pet owners are to pick up dog waste and do their best to minimize barking,” she added.
In line with the “Libreng Kapon at Ligate” project, Villar disclosed the ongoing construction of an animal shelter at Camella Springville in Bacoor City. She said the facility aims to address the issue of stray dogs and cats contributing to the spread of rabies in communities. With reports from Ana Mae Malate, trainee