1 rabies case recorded in Padawan this week, says Kuching South mayor

KUCHING (July 7): One rabies case involving a pet dog in Kampung Kuap, Padawan near here was recorded this week, said Kuching South mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng.

He said the dog tested positive for rabies and reminded the public to remain vigilant and send their dogs for anti-rabies vaccination.

“Not only are pet owners required to send their dogs for rabies vaccination but they also need to apply for licences,” he said during his Facebook live session ‘Shall WEE Talk’.

He also noted some quarters had queried why the anti-rabies vaccination only involved dogs and not cats, and said he had brought this issue to the the attention of the Veterinary Services Department of Sarawak (DVSS).

He hoped the DVSS would make the necessary arrangements to meet the community’s demand.

“After all, there is also a possibility of cats spreading rabies. Hence, it makes sense for the public to expect the authorities to provide vaccination for cats as well,” he said.

Wee said he would loop in the community as soon as he receives DVSS’ feedback.

Alternatively, he said pet owners could take their dogs and cats for rabies vaccination at any veterinary clinic.

Meanwhile, Wee said he would attended the Unesco Creative Cities Network (UCCN) annual conference in Portugal this year.

According to him, the UCCN annual conference next year is scheduled to take place in Mexico.

It is understood that about 350 cities and 130 city mayors attended the conference.