South Cotabato, Philippines — The Provincial Veterinary Office (OPV) of South Cotabato urged pet owners to practice responsible pet ownership as the province observes World Rabies Day today, September 28, highlighting responsible ownership as an important measure in preventing rabies and protecting communities.
According to Dr. Ramelo Quinton, Veterinarian III, the annual observance serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about rabies prevention and the importance of protecting both people and animals from the fatal disease.
“September 28 gina-celebrate naton ang World Rabies Day. Ngaa September 28 lang gid gina-celebrate ang World Rabies Day? It is because gina-honor naton ang death anniversary ni Louis Pasteur, nga una nga nag-develop kag nag-discover sang rabies vaccine,” Quinton said.
Quinton also emphasized that responsible pet ownership plays an important role in preventing rabies and other animal-related incidents in communities.
He urged pet owners to ensure that their dogs and cats are vaccinated, properly restrained, and regularly cared for.
“Kita nga naga-alaga sang aso kag pusa, dapat maging responsable kita nga pet owners. Kung responsable kita, una, pabakunahan naton aton nga mga alaga; ikaduha, itali or ikulong naton para indi maglagaw kag makakagat; ikatatlo, ligoan naton ang aton alaga,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Errol B. Javier, Veterinarian IV, announced that veterinary services are being offered to pet owners, including rabies vaccination, deworming for pets, and castration for dogs and cats, subject to limited slots.
“In celebration of World Rabies Day subong nga September 28, 2026, may ara kita nga Rabies Vaccination, Deworming for Pets, kag Castration for Dogs and Cats, available for limited slots only,” Javier said.
The Provincial Veterinary Office continues to encourage communities to take an active role in rabies prevention by vaccinating their pets, keeping them properly confined or supervised, and seeking immediate medical attention after any animal bite.
Through responsible pet ownership and continued community participation, the province aims to strengthen rabies prevention efforts and promote safer communities for both people and animals.
