South Cotabato, Philippines —Authorities are discouraging the use of “tandok,” a traditional horn suction method, as a supposed treatment for dog or cat bites. According to Byron F. Dela Cruz, DVM, there are existing laws prohibiting this practice because it has no scientific basis and may put lives at risk.
The veterinarian clarified that the belief that the rabies virus is found in the blood and can be sucked out using a tandok is incorrect.
“The rabies virus is not in the blood. It is in the nerves,” he explained. Because of this, tandok is not effective in removing or treating the virus.
Dela Cruz also urged the public not to believe in unverified information about “tandok misinformation.” Instead, proper medical procedures should be followed in cases of animal bites.
He emphasized that within 24 hours after being bitten, the incident should be reported immediately to the barangay or the nearest Animal Bite Treatment Center (ABTC) for proper assessment and vaccination.
“Do not wait for symptoms to appear before seeking medical attention,” he emphasized.
Rabies is a deadly disease if left untreated. Through proper and immediate action, it can be prevented, and communities can be protected.
In South Cotabato, the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital recorded 36, 243 animal bites, according to October 2025 data.
Animal bites were the most reported cases in the provincial hospital, the report revealed.
Dela Cruz, however, said that anti-rabies vaccination among dogs and cats is the cheapest strategy to eliminate rabies cases.
“Vaccines for dogs and cats are given free, but when your unvaccinated animals bite somebody, pet owners are obliged to pay more than P2000 in private hospitals for human anti-rabies vaccine,” he added.
