File photo of four stray dogs seen loitering in an open space.

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By Karen Bong

KUCHING, July 13: A rabies-positive case involving a free-roaming pet was reported at Rantau Panjang area in Batu Kawa during the week of July 9 to 12.

Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the pet dog was not microchipped, making it challenging for the authority to trace its owner.

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“Even though the number of cases has dropped, but there are still cases reported nearly on a weekly basis. So the public must remain vigilant and take precautionary measures,” he advised during his ShallWeeTalk live today.

Acknowledging that rabies could also affect cats, Wee mentioned that he had communicated this concern with the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS Sarawak).

While the Department is currently focusing on dogs, cat owners are encouraged to have their pets vaccinated against rabies.

“The Council will try to secure some funding to assist cat owners. However, if measures can be implemented for both dogs and cats, I believe it will be more effective,” he said while giving assurance of continued efforts and actions to eradicate rabies in Kuching city. — DayakDaily