GINGOOG CityY — Pet owners are urged to get their dogs and cats vaccinated against rabies as the city continues its free vaccination drive in barangays.
City Veterinarian Dr. April Zea B. Anino said anti-rabies vaccines are available at the City Veterinary Office, while veterinary personnel also visit communities to make vaccination more accessible.
Owners of unvaccinated pets can bring them to the office or take advantage of scheduled barangay vaccination activities to help protect animals and people from the deadly disease.
From January to September 2026, the city vaccinated 8,095 dogs and 1,748 cats, according to City Veterinary Office data. In 2025, it vaccinated 10,158 dogs and 1,678 cats.
The city’s animal population survey recorded 11,477 dogs and 6,498 cats from January to September 2026, up from 11,280 dogs and 5,985 cats in 2025.
The City Veterinary Office also reported impounding 278 dogs during the first nine months of 2026. Of these, 20 were claimed by their owners and 10 were adopted.
City Councilor Jerome Magan, chairperson of the council’s Committee on Health, also urged pet owners to use the city’s free anti-rabies vaccination service.
He called on barangay officials to help inform residents and support vaccination activities in their communities.
Rabies is fatal once symptoms develop but can be prevented through timely vaccination of dogs and cats.
People bitten or scratched by an animal should wash the wound immediately with soap and running water and seek prompt medical assessment for possible rabies post-exposure treatment.
