The BANTAY Hayop Davao (BHD) is urging the public to vaccinate their pets and practice responsible pet ownership after a surge in rabies cases in Davao City.
In a recent interview, BHD President Rovie Bullina said that eight dogs have tested positive for rabies since December 25, 2023, while eight others are suspected to be infected. Bullina expressed deep concern over the city’s lack of a rabies observatory facility, difficulty in identifying rabies cases, and the public’s negligence in testing their dogs.
The confirmed rabies cases were reported in the barangays of Tacunan, Mintal, and Talomo, while suspected cases were found in Bunawan, Toril, and Puan. Bullina emphasized the alarming rate of the virus’s spread within these neighboring areas.
BHD has dismissed the effectiveness of impounding dogs as a solution to the rabies problem. Instead, the organization strongly advocates for mass pet vaccination to prevent further outbreaks. The public is also advised to seek immediate medical attention if bitten by a suspected rabid animal, as the consequences of rabies can be irreversible.
Bullina called on the city government to address the escalating rabies situation and invest in necessary facilities and resources to combat the disease.
