By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, Oct 1: Dog owners have been warned that no more excuses will be tolerated, as Kuching South City Council (MBKS) reminded that pet owners who fail to vaccinate their dogs against rabies face fines of up to RM2,000.
The council is again providing free anti-rabies vaccination, licensing, microchipping and subsidised neutering for dogs this Saturday (Oct 4) at the Sarawak Basketball Association hall located in Lorong 3, Taman Seng Goon, from 8.30am to 4.30pm.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said rabies prevention is not solely the responsibility of the government but a shared duty between the authorities and the community.
“Since Sarawak was declared an infected area in 2017, much has been done to protect residents and their pets. Rabies remains a very serious threat, and we must continue to strengthen our preventive measures,” he said at a press conference at MBKS headquarters today.
Jointly organised by MBKS, the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVSS) and partner agencies, the programme urges dog owners to vaccinate their pets annually, license and microchip them for identification, and support neutering to control stray numbers.
A subsidy of RM150 will be offered to the first 100 MBKS-licensed and vaccinated female dogs brought in for neutering.
“We want to make it easier for pet owners to do the right thing, get their dogs vaccinated yearly, ensure they are licensed and microchipped, and support neutering to control stray numbers.
“There is no reason not to participate when the services are free. If you remain stubborn, then we have no choice but to penalise. And this time, I will not waive the penalties,” Wee stressed.
Owners are reminded to bring their IC and vaccination card, and ensure their dogs are healthy, over three months old and not pregnant. After vaccination, pets must be quarantined for 28 days, kept on a leash in public, and not allowed to mix with unknown dogs.
He thanked all agencies, veterinary officers and volunteers for supporting the campaign, and called on the public to play their part.
“I hope people appreciate these efforts. Show your appreciation by bringing your pets for vaccination. You’re not helping us only, you’re helping yourselves and helping Sarawak become free of rabies by 2030,” he said.— DayakDaily
