By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 4: Kuching South City Council’s (MBKS) free anti-rabies vaccinations drive, including microchipping and pet licensing registration services, is scheduled next Saturday (Nov 11) from 8.30am to 4.30pm at its Community Hall compound.
MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng has urged pet owners to prepare their pet dogs and animals for this important vaccination initiative.
“Promotional posters have also been put up in certain areas of the city to encourage pet owners not to miss this opportunity to bring their animals for the vaccination.
“If you love your pets, bring them for their vaccination, which must be done annually. It is the responsibility of every pet owner to ensure the health and well-being of their pets,” he said during his ShallWeeTalk online session while in China today.
In response to requests for home-visit vaccinations, Wee clarified that private veterinarians and clinics offer such services.
“For those needing these services, we can provide contact information. We understand that some pet owners may face time constraints or other circumstances that make it inconvenient to bring their pets to public vaccination campaigns,” he added.
Regarding the 14-day quarantine policy for pets entering Sarawak from Peninsula Malaysia and other countries, Wee pointed out that this is a regulatory matter.
He advised concerned individuals to write to the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) Sarawak along with the necessary supporting documents to file an appeal.
“It is the current regulation and law in the agriculture sector. But I am willing to discuss this policy with the DVS,” he said while acknowledging that periodic reviews of rules and regulations are necessary when the need arises.
He also welcomed proposals and suggestions for improving or amending policies related to pets or animals.
A netizen raised the concern that the current policy overlooks the fact that these animals are often already vaccinated, including receiving anti-rabies vaccinations. — DayakDaily
