Bontoc stray dogs caught in anti-rabies drive

By Alpine L. Killa-Malwagay, Bontoc LGU 

BONTOC, Mountain Province- The municipal government here, through the Municipal Anti-Rabies Control Council held stray dog-catching activities in central barangays on August 31 to ensure public safety, take a proactive stance against rabies and maintain cleanliness and sanitation in this capital town. 
    The activity was carried out by the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist (OMAG), Municipal Health Office (MHO), Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPVet), Bontoc Municipal Police Station, barangay kagawad and tanod.
    Five dogs were caught an impounded at the OPVet. 
    Three dogs were claimed by the owners. 
    According to Agricultural Technologist Sheryl Tumingeb of the OMAg, dogs that were caught and impounded at the OPVet were provided with anti-rabies vaccination shots, deworming, scabies treatment, food, and care maintenance.  
    Bontoc Mayor Jerome “Chagsen” Tudlong, Jr., commended the efforts of the offices and the BLGUs involved in the dog-catching activity, saying this was for benefit of the populace. 
    Tudlong reiterated importance of responsible pet ownership and urged pet owners to have their dogs vaccinated against rabies and ensure they were properly cared for. 
    Meanwhile, owners of impounded dogs were told to visit the OMAG to reclaim their pets. 
    As stipulated under ordinance 373, S. 2023, violators are subjected to a fine of not less than P500 for first offense and P1,000 for the second and succeeding offenses. 
    It is to be noted that before the series of dog-catching activities, the Bontoc LGU through the OMAg conducted dog-catching training participated in by barangay tanods from barangays Bontoc Ili, Samoki, Caluttit, and Poblacion including personnel from the MHO. 
    Trainers were Dr. Michael Takinan, Dr. Kevin Tictica, Dr. Andogan Revira, Dr. Cyrilbone Barroga, and Dr. Cluper Oros who are all from Baguio City Veterinary and Agriculture Offices (CVAO).
    Also, tools for dog catching were turned over by the Bontoc LGU to barangay officials of Bontoc Ili, Caluttit, Samoki, and Poblacion after the training. 
    Tools included catching poles with nets, animal handling gloves, and dog cages.