By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 11: A pet cat and a stray cat were among five rabies-positive animal cases detected in the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) area last week.
Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said in the latest record a pet cat at Jalan Stephen Yong and a pet dog at Taman Satria Jaya, BDC, were not involved in animal bite incidents, but these animals have exhibited rabies-related symptoms.
“This prompted their owners to request tests from the Health Department, which confirmed the presence of rabies,” he said during his ShallWeeTalk online session with the community today.
The remaining three cases involved animal bites, with one involving a pet dog at Stutong Baru, which bit its owner.
“The fourth case involved a stray dog which bit a pedestrian at Jalan Keretapi, now known as Jalan Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce.
“The fifth case, another bite incident, involved a stray cat at Jalan Stakan Jaya,” he said.
Expressing concern over the trend of rabies affecting cats, Wee emphasised the need for increased vigilance within the community.
He urged pet owners to prioritise their animals’ safety by ensuring they receive annual anti-rabies vaccinations.
“If you love your pets, be responsible owners; bring them for their yearly anti-rabies vaccinations to protect your animals and family,” he stressed.
Additionally, Wee advised pet owners to keep their animals within the home compound to prevent incidents of bites on people.
With the ongoing free anti-rabies vaccination campaign at MBKS Community Hall until 4.30pm today, he urged pet owners not to miss the opportunity to bring their pet animals for their vaccination.
“Otherwise, you might have to wait until next year or visit private vet clinics,” he said.
As of 1pm today, 271 dogs have already been vaccinated, and MBKS is targeting to vaccinate 400 dogs in this latest campaign. — DayakDaily
