THE CITY Veterinarian’s Office (CVO) gave 39,384 dogs free anti-rabies vaccinations for the first quarter of 2024.
CVO chief Dr. Corazon Sepulveda said the number increased with its intensified month-long free rabies vaccination program in line with the observance of Rabies Awareness Month in March.
During the iSpeak Media Forum on Thursday, April 11, Sepulveda reported 30,525 vaccinated dogs for March.
Sepulveda reminded pet owners to have their pets be vaccinated against rabies as it is considered the best means to prevent the spread of the disease.
“Importante pa rin po yung tayo ay magpabakuna, yun ang best na ma-prevent natin ang rabies sa dogs and pets and prevent spread of rabies in humans, as the pets are the main source through infected bite,” Sepulveda said.
Pet owners are told to seek assistance and avail of free services in its 11 district offices and its main office at the City Hall Annex in Magallanes St.
The district offices offer vaccination from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Friday, while the city offers free castration services on Tuesday and Thursday.
Meanwhile, a total of 1,125 dogs and cats were castrated from the free castration program of the city vet for 2024 Q1.
The official reminded the public to follow guidelines to avoid delays in availing of the services. Bringing pet carriers is encouraged but not mandatory.
The guidelines include pets must have an updated vaccination with anti-rabies, be healthy and fit for surgery, be 4 months old and above, regardless of the breed, must not be in heat, must not be fed with food from 8 pm a day before surgery schedule and must have taken a bath a day prior.
For the venue, pet owners should coordinate with the respective barangay. Walk-in clients are accepted but onsite registration starts as early as 8 am on the scheduled date.
