Bataeños, as empowered responsible pet owners

CITY of BALANGA, Bataan – In observance of the World Rabies Day, the Provincial Veterinary Office spearheaded a program yesterday held at the Bulwagan ng Bayan 2, this City aptly themed “Empowering Bataeños towards responsible pet ownership”.

Provincial Veterinarian, Dr. Alberto S. Venturina warmly welcomed the participants from all over the province composed of barangay leaders, local government officials, farmer beneficiaries, preschool children, parents and responsible pet owners.

Board Members Gaudencio Ferrer, Aristotle Gaza and Jose Villapando each delivered inspirational messages regarding the importance of responsible pet ownership as well as the necessity of rabies control and eradication in the province. Ms. Dolores Gara and a staff from the Provincial Health Office presented the status and updates on rabies cases both on animals and on humans in the province as well as on prevention.

Ms. Gara also discussed Provincial Ordinance No. 175 that provides for a comprehensive animal regulation and rabies control and eradication, penalties for violations and necessary appropriations for the purpose. Ms. Trinidad Tallorin and Ms. Izza Rona Abina shared vital information on rabies prevention especially among children who are the most helpless and vulnerable to animal attacks/bites.

In response to the proliferation of stray dogs and cats that endanger the health and lives of the residents, neutering of stray dogs and cats was done. Some responsible pet owners even brought their dogs for neutering. The procedure was done, following the prescribed guidelines of the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS).

Towards the end of the successful event, five cows, under the animal dispersal program were awarded to farmer beneficiaries from Dinalupihan and Balanga City.