Avoid stray animals as precaution against rabies

SIBU: Students are reminded to steer clear of stray dogs and cats due to concerns about the risk of rabies.

Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) Sibu Divisional Office head Dr Siong Jing Jing, stressed the importance of caution and awareness among students.

He said that many of them tend to encounter these animals and develop a fondness for them.

“When encountering stray or wild animals, avoid approaching or interacting with them. Inform adults if the wild animal behaves strangely so that appropriate measures can be taken,” he said.

He said this in his speech during an Anti-Rabies Awareness Talk held at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Sentosa here today.

A total of 80 students, including parents and teachers, attended the lecture organised by the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) in collaboration with DVS Sarawak.

He also urged the public to regularly vaccinate their pets.

“Concerning the responsibility of pet ownership, owners need to ensure their pets receive regular vaccinations to protect them from rabies.

“It is a collective responsibility to prevent rabies, achievable by responsibly caring for our pets and not allowing them to roam freely outside the premises,” he added.

Also present was Councillor Kiing Teck Ho and others.