Rabies detected among TNVR-collared stray dogs

KUCHING: Rabies positive cases have been detected among Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Release ( TNVR) PVC- collared stray dogs.

A joint statement by Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak acting director Dr Adrian Susin Ambud and Ministry of Local Government and Housing public health head Dr Cheong Yaw Liang yesterday said as such the Padawan Municipal Council ( MPP) was right to capture TNVR PVC- collared stray dogs last month.

The statement said last month MPP received multiple complaints from the public that free roaming dogs at Mile 10 Padawan were turning aggressive and a threat to the neighbourhood.

“MPP immediately sent their team to the affected areas and they found four free roaming dogs that actually showed rabid signs. Out of the four dogs, one of them was a TNVR dog with PVC collar.

“Acting according to the standard operating procedure (SOP) spelled by State Disaster Management Committee in Targeted Strays Removal, the council immediately removed the free roaming dogs and sent them to the State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory for further action,” said the statement.

The statement added the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak by virtue of Sections 37 (2) and 3 of the Veterinary Public Health Ordinance 1999 ( VPHO 1999), has taken the step to eradicate rabies from Sarawak.

As the dogs were from a rabies-infected area, they were put to sleep and used for sampling.

“For the information of the public, we do come across positive rabies infected TNVR dogs. Hence, we do not want to put the public at any possible risk.

“We would like to advise the public to lodge a report to the relevant authorities if they come across any dog or animal that turns aggressive or shows rabid signs,” added the statement.

The statement also advised the public not to adopt strays without vaccinations because the dogs and cats could be carriers of the rabies virus.

“Movement of dogs from rabiesinfected areas is prohibited and the fine under Section 37 VPOH 1999 is up to RM5,000.

“To pet owners, please ensure your pets are vaccinated against rabies and keep them confi ned in your area. Once again, we would like to say the public’s safety is our upmost concern,” said the statement.

The statement was in response to the Save Our Strays Kuching Association’s call for the authorities to stop catching TNVR PVC- collared strays.

Association president Kitty Chin said there was a mutual agreement between non- governmental organisations and the authorities that neutered and anti-rabies vaccinated strays should not be removed and killed.

MPP immediately sent their team to the affected areas and they found four free roaming dogs that actually showed rabid signs. Out of the four dogs, one of them was a TNVR dog with PVC collar. A joint statement by Dr Adrian Susin Ambud and Dr Cheong Yaw Liang