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Responsible pet ownership key in campaign to curb rise in rabies cases

Animal companionship is deeply woven into the cultural fabric of Filipino society.

The recent surge in rabies cases and deaths serves as a sobering reminder of the grave responsibilities that come with being a pet owner. 

According to the Department of Health (DOH), a staggering 55 cases of rabies nationwide, all resulting in deaths, have been reported in the first quarter of 2023 alone – an 8 percent increase from the previous year. 

Meanwhile, in January 2024, DOH recorded 7 cases of rabies across the country, which also resulted in a 100 percent fatality rate. 

The statistics are alarming, with the disease's near-perfect fatality rate casting a dark shadow over the joy and companionship that pets bring into our lives. 

However, this crisis also presents an opportunity for Filipinos to embrace a renewed commitment to responsible pet ownership, a pivotal step towards safeguarding not only the well-being of our beloved pets but also the health and safety of our families and communities.

At the heart of responsible pet ownership lies a fundamental understanding of the rabies virus and its transmission pathways. As the DOH highlights, the vast majority of human rabies cases, a staggering 93 percent from 2008 to 2023, can be traced back to animal bite incidents. This sobering fact underscores the critical importance of proper pet care, including regular vaccinations and adherence to strict safety protocols when interacting with stray or unfamiliar animals.

Responsible pet owners must prioritize the timely administration of anti-rabies vaccinations for their pets, a proactive measure that not only protects their pets, but also serves as a vital barrier against the spread of this deadly virus. By collaborating with veterinarians and adhering to recommended vaccination schedules, pet owners can play a pivotal role in creating a safer environment for themselves, their families, and their communities.

Moreover, responsible pet ownership extends beyond mere vaccination; it encompasses a holistic approach to animal welfare. This includes providing adequate shelter, nutrition, and access to veterinary care, as well as fostering a nurturing and enriching environment for our pets to thrive. By attending to their physical and emotional needs, we not only strengthen the sacred bond between pet and owner but also cultivate well-adjusted, healthy animals less likely to pose a threat to public health.

Education and awareness campaigns also hold the key to empowering Filipinos to become responsible pet owners. By disseminating knowledge about rabies transmission, preventive measures, and the importance of responsible pet ownership, we can inspire a collective shift towards a more vigilant and proactive approach to animal care.

Collaboration between government agencies, veterinary professionals, and community organizations can amplify these efforts, ensuring that every corner of the nation is equipped with the necessary tools and information to combat this deadly disease.


What are the signs and symptoms of rabies? 

Rabies is a fatal infection caused by Lyssavirus following a bite or scratch of an infected animal. It can affect the central nervous system once the individual gets exposed to the virus. The worst case scenario is when the rabies infection rapidly reaches the spinal cord and travels to the brain which can cause neurological symptoms. 

Health experts said individuals exposed to rabies must be wary of the incubation period or the time between exposure and the manifestation of symptoms. 

Symptoms may vary depending on how far the location of the exposure site away from the brain and the existing immunity of individuals. Initial symptoms include: 

  • Fever and headache 
  • Neuropathic pain or itching and numbing sensation the site of the bite 
  • Loss of muscle sensation  
  • Hydrophobia or psychological fear of water 

Meanwhile, there are also telltale signs of the presence of rabies in your pets: 

  • Sudden display of aggression 
  • Excessive salivation 
  • Difficulty in swallowing
  • Death within 14 days after biting or scratching 

It can take days, weeks, months or even years for the severe signs of rabies to appear on the human body and its clinical manifestations nearly always lead to fatal outcomes. The effect of rabies infection on animals is rather more aggressive because they do not typically survive long after contracting and transmitting the virus. 

To prevent these from happening, it is best to let the anti-rabies jab do its job. 


How are local governments joining the fight against rabies? 

The city governments in the National Capital Region (NCR) offer different programs and services to help you realize your pet ownership goals. 

“Bukod sa pagmamahal at pag-aaruga para sa ating mga alaga, tiyakin po natin na sila ay bakunado upang hindi mapahamak ang kanilang mga nakakasalamuha, bahagi po ito ng responsible pet ownership,” said Mayor Dale Gonzalo “Along” Malapitan of the Caloocan City government. 

(Aside from loving and caring for our pets, let us ensure that they are vaccinated to prevent them from harming the individuals they are encountering, this is part of responsible pet ownership). 

Nurturing your pets can be a high maintenance task. Fortunately, you do not have to completely shoulder the cost of caring for them alone. 

From March 1 to March 8, 2024, the local government of Caloocan is offering free anti-rabies vaccination for dogs and cats  through the City Veterinary Department (CVD). The schedule, venue, and important reminders can be accessed here:  bit.ly/AntiRabiesVaccination

On the other hand, individuals who will be bitten or scratched by dogs or cats can go to any of the eight (8) Animal Bite Treatment Centers in the city which are open Monday to Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 5 p.m. 

You can avail of free consultation, anti-rabies vaccine, and medicine in the following centers: 

(Photo Courtesy: Caloocan City Mayor Along Malapitan official Facebook Page) 

Meanwhile, a sum of 237 cats and dogs were able to receive the anti-rabies vaccine in Pasig City during the local government’s vaccination drive last March 1, 2024. 

Pet owners in Pasig City queue to get their pets vaccinated against rabies. (Photo Courtesy: Pasig City Public Information Office)

In Navotas City, aside from getting anti-rabies vaccination, the local government is also encouraging pet owners in the city to register their pets to avail of free veterinary care services, particularly checkup. 

Pet owners in Navotas City line up to register their pets and have them vaccinated. (Photo Courtesy: Navotas Public Information Office)

Pet neglect is punishable. As a pet owner, it is your responsibility to shower your pets with love that will allow them to survive and thrive in the environment you will place them in. 

Republic Act No. 8485 or the Animal Welfare Act of 1998 states that any individual who will subject any animal to cruelty may be imprisoned up to two (2) years and fined up to P100,000. 

Ensuring that your pets are vaccinated against rabies annually is part of this responsibility. It is also your obligation to make sure that they are receiving proper nutrition by giving them clean food and water. 

There is an ordinance in Quezon City that penalizes irresponsible pet ownership. 

Based on Ordinance No. SP 2505, s. 2016, negligent pet owners will be fined P1,000 for first offense, P1,500 for second offense, and P2,000 for third offense along with the corresponding confiscation of their pets. 


Do you want to become a pet owner? 

While it requires a lot of effort to become a responsible pet owner, there are many positive reasons as to why many individuals are choosing to embark on this unique journey of having a pet. 

On a personal and emotional level, having a pet is like having a constant companion. Most importantly, they: 

  1. Are good listeners: If you are having a bad day, talking to your pets is a calming therapy. They don’t invalidate your feelings so you can freely share your distressing thoughts and let out your frustration without guilt. 
  2. Don’t judge: Your pet does not think that you are less beautiful because you gained weight or that you are less of a person because you failed an interview. You do not need to walk on eggshells around them because no matter what happens, they won’t leave your side.  
  3. Thinks you're awesome 24/7: In the eyes of your pet, you are a hero who speaks and understands their language. Their wiggles and licky kisses will prove it. 

If you think that you are ready to take on the role of being a pet owner, you can start your pet ownership journey through adoption. There are many animals who need a home they can call their own and you can help fulfill this dream. 

The city of Valenzuela can help you adopt a dog or cat through this website: valpets.appcase.net.

By clicking the “Bring Me Home” tab on the website, you can see the list of pets that are up for adoption and choose an animal that best fits your characteristics by checking their information. 

The basic requirements for pet adoption are letter request, valid I.D., barangay certificate of residency, and picture of the home or location of the new pet that you will be adopting. This is to ensure that the pets will be in good hands. 

(Photo Courtesy: Valenzuela Public Information Office)

This March, we are observing the Rabies Awareness Month pursuant to Republic Act No. 9482 which centers on the need for the establishment of responsible pet ownership. 

Ultimately, the rising incidence of rabies in the Philippines serves as a wake-up call, reminding us of the profound impact our choices have on the well-being of our communities. By embracing responsible pet ownership, we not only honor the sacred bond we share with our beloved pets but also contribute to the larger goal of creating a safer, healthier nation for generations to come. (JMP/PIA-NCR) 

About the Author

Janna Marie Pineda

Information Officer

NCR

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