Health and veterinary experts underscore the importance of prevention and responsible pet ownership, alongside intensified vaccination programs to combat the fatal disease, during the Talakayan sa PIA media forum with the Department of Health and Cagayan de Oro City Veterinary Office on March 7, 2025, at SM City CDO Uptown. (Photo: JAKA/PIA10)
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) – Experts urged pet owners to be more active in rabies prevention, stressing that the responsibility for preventing the disease lies with individuals, not just government programs.
Dr. John Daniel Estandarte, Medical Officer III of the Department of Health Infectious Diseases Cluster, noted that rabies remains fatal but preventable. While the DOH and local veterinary offices conduct vaccination programs, Estandarte emphasized that pet owners are key in stopping the spread.
In 2024, Region 10 reported 13 rabies-related deaths, but the number dropped in 2025, with only one fatality so far. Estandarte said the decrease is a positive sign, but further efforts are needed.
The DOH, in collaboration with local veterinary offices, continues free vaccination drives, mass vaccination events and information campaigns in barangays and public schools. However, these efforts will only succeed if pet owners ensure proper care and vaccination for their pets.
Dr. Helen Ann Tacandog, Cagayan de Oro City veterinarian, said responsible pet ownership involves more than affection for animals. She urged pet owners to vaccinate their pets and prevent unsupervised roaming.
She recommends vaccinating pets starting at three months old and continuing annual vaccinations. If a pet shows signs of rabies, owners should contact local veterinary offices immediately.
Tacandog warned that neglecting pet care is punishable by law. “If we let them roam without care, they become a societal problem,” she added. (ALAO/PIA-10)
