Rabies: Kuching reports 1 case this week involving pet dog bite in Kpg Kuap Padawan

Rabies can be spread through animal bites. — DayakDaily.com file pic

By Ashley Sim

KUCHING, July 6: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng has reported that one rabies-positive case occurred this week in Kuching, involving a pet dog bite in Lorong Kuap, Kampung Kuap, in Kota Padawan here.

Wee also reminded pet dog owners about the ‘Free Anti-Rabies Vaccination, Licensing, Microchipping, and Subsidised Neutering for Dogs’ programme, which is currently taking place at the Sungai Apong Basketball Association Hall from 8.30am to 4.30pm today.

“Today, we have a variety of services available for pet dog owners, such as vaccination, microchipping, licensing, and subsidised neutering.

“The programme will end at 4.30pm, so there is still time to take your pets to get vaccinated. Also, get a permit and microchip for your pets, which are all very important. We also have subsidised coupons for neutering your pet dogs,” he said during his weekly ShallWeeTalk live today.

The mayor also expressed hope that pet owners cooperate with the authorities to decrease the number of rabies cases.

“I have also requested that the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) Sarawak arrange for cat vaccinations. Dogs and cats are both carriers of rabies, which can spread.

“So, instead of just dog vaccinations, I believe we should arrange for cat vaccinations as well. I’ll wait for their response and then explain to the citizens.

“We’ll see how to deal with cat vaccinations. However, you may also visit private pet clinics to get your pets vaccinated,” he added. — DayakDaily