SIBU: The public has been urged to vaccinate and microchip their pet dogs as part of efforts to control the spread of rabies.
Speaking at a Anti-Rabbies Vaccination, Microchipping and Licensing programme organised by the Sibu Rural District Council (SRDC) and the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVS), SRDC chairman Sempurai Petrus Ngelai stressed the importance of public cooperation in tackling rabies.
“The best way to control the spread of rabies is through vaccination and microchipping, so that we know the number of dogs in a certain area.
“We don’t want outsiders accusing our dogs of being strays and carrying rabies when in fact, the infected dogs are actually pets that were let out of homes and became exposed to the virus,” he said during the programme held at Sang Ik Methodist Church here today (July 19).
Sempurai said the microchipping system would enable authorities to track and monitor the pet population in specific areas, ensuring better response and control of the cases.
He also pointed out the misconception that rabies only comes from dogs, when in fact, cats can also be carriers of the virus.
“People assume cats are less dangerous because they’re often kept indoors, but in reality, they can be even more dangerous. Infected stray cats can come into contact with pet cats, who then bring the virus into our homes.
“Scratches and bites from cats can be just as serious, and symptoms may be harder to detect compared to dogs,” he said.
Sempurai expressed hope that future campaigns would continue to educate the public about the risks of rabies from both dogs and cats, and called on community leaders, especially village chiefs, to help disseminate accurate information.
He also urged those bitten by animals to seek immediate medical attention and complete the full course of anti-rabies vaccination.
“There have been cases where people delayed getting treatment or failed to complete their vaccination schedule. Some even developed seizures,” he said.
