KUCHING, July 26: Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas says seven individuals including a child have been bitten by stray dogs at the Reservoir Park.
He said one of the four dogs trapped by the authorities at the Reservoir Park recently was tested positive for rabies while another set free by members of the public.
The seven dog attack cases at the Reservoir Park has led to the proposal of a special operation to remove strays dogs in public places.
“This is really shocking to us as our previous anti-rabies operation had included the place. Obviously the stray dogs are still there.
“As such the State Disaster Management Committee has made this proposal in addition to the current Fifth Phase operation to be carried out in Sri Aman, Lubok Antu and Betong Districts from July 31 to August 3 soon.
“I would like the Police to identify more such public places not only in Kuching but other big towns for our action,” he said today when chairing a meeting to co-ordinate the Fifth Phase anti-rabies operation.
Uggah who is the chairman of the committee also wanted the Police, Sarawak Veterinary Services Department and local councils to look at the by-law to see if any action could be taken against those found feeding stray dogs in public places.
“We are not against such noble deed but now with the outbreak we should stop feeding them otherwise our operation is being compromised,” said Uggah.
He said the strays have become a serious threat and some 300 dog bite cases have been recorded statewide each week.
“A 27-year-old man who had adopted two puppies from an organisation was bitten by one of them. The victim did not realised the gravity of his situation nor did he sought the recommended treatment until it was too late,” said Uggah.
Uggah advised that anyone who was bitten by dogs, cats or even monkeys to wash the bite wound under running water for at least 10 minutes or more before seeking treatment at the hospital where they would be referred to the Post Dog Bites Clinic for further treatment.
“After office hours, the advice is to approach the Emergency Unit of the hospital. The officer on duty there will know want to do for treatment,” he said.
He again called on pet lovers to get their dogs and cats vaccinated and those interested to buy must trace the pets’ origin and whether these pets have been vaccinated. — DayakDaily
