KUCHING: A free-roaming dog in Samarahan has tested positive for rabies, making it the only positive case detected in Sarawak between Aug 3 and 7.
The Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVSS) said the case was detected at Greenwood Park and involved a dog bite incident.
It said 29 animal samples were tested at the Sarawak Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (SVDL) during the week, with only one returning positive for rabies.
Following the detection, DVSS reminded dog owners that annual anti-rabies vaccination is compulsory under Section 40 of the Veterinary Public Health Ordinance 1999.
Owners who fail to vaccinate their dogs can face fines of up to RM2,500, while unvaccinated dogs found roaming may be detained or culled.
The department said vaccinated dogs are typically microchipped for permanent identification, while free mass vaccination and microchipping programmes are regularly carried out with local councils and non-governmental organisations.
Dog licensing is also compulsory under the Local Authorities (Dog Licensing and Control) By-laws 2018.
Keeping an unlicensed dog can result in fines of up to RM5,000, while owners are also required to keep their dogs within secure premises and prevent them from roaming freely.
Dog licences are issued by the respective local councils and generally require proof of valid anti-rabies vaccination.
DVSS also advised owners to contact their nearest veterinary office or respective local council for information on licensing requirements and anti-rabies vaccination programmes.
