Volunteer vets assist with anti-rabies mass vaccination
SIBU: Members of Sarawak Veterinary Association are voluntarily assisting the state Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) in anti-rabies mass vaccination to curb the spread of the disease.
According to DVS Sarawak director Dr Adrian Susin Ambud, four DVS Malaysia personnel are coming over on weekly basis for the exercise.
He told thesundaypost when asked if DVS would enlist the help of private veterinarians in the mass vaccination programme.
Dr Adrian added: “The public can bring their dogs for rabies vaccination during office hours at divisional DVS offices across Sarawak.”
He said that only Limbang is still free from rabies thus far.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah on Friday announced seven
Do not move pets from infected zones without permit from the State Veterinary Authority. Do not dump unwanted pets – contact the nearest Veterinary Divisional Office or the local council to surrender your dogs. — Dr Adrian Susin Ambud, DVS Sarawak director
new areas in Sarawak as rabiesinfected, bringing the total to 54. They are Pekan Baru Balingian, Pekan Baru Mukah, Tanjong Manis, KM2 Jalan Kanowit-Durin, Betong Vocational College, Pekan Sebauh and Kampung Long Miri in Telang Usan.
Dr Adrian repeated DVS’ reminder on the 10 points to prevent rabies and reminded pet owners to have their dogs vaccinated annually and not to adopt dogs from unknown sources.
He advised pet owners to WhatsApp rabies hotline – 016 205 1111 if their dogs show signs of rabies.
“Do not move pets from infected zones without permit from the State Veterinary Authority. Do not dump unwanted pets – contact the nearest Veterinary Divisional Office or the local council to surrender your dogs.
“Have your dogs licensed with the local council; neuter pets for population control; keep dogs within house compounds and securely leash dogs when out for walks.”
He also stressed on the importance of washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling animals, adding that if bitten, wash wound with soap and under running water for 15 minutes, then seek immediate medical attention at government hospitals.