By Rowena T. Cruz Residents eagerly brought their beloved pets, from dogs and cats to other farm animals, to avail of the free vaccinations ...
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| Residents eagerly brought their beloved pets, from dogs and cats to other farm animals, to avail of the free vaccinations and veterinary services offered during the mission. (Quezon PIO) |
POLILLO, Quezon – The Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPV) successfully completed a significant veterinary medical mission and anti-rabies vaccination drive across the Polillo Group of Islands from May 19 to June 4, 2025. This comprehensive initiative aimed to bolster animal and public health by preventing rabies and providing essential veterinary care to a wide range of animals.
The extensive outreach served 1,823 residents across the islands. A total of 2,515 pets were vaccinated against rabies, a crucial step in preventing the spread of the deadly disease. This included 1,885 dogs, 627 cats, and even 3 monkeys, demonstrating the breadth of the vaccination efforts.
"Our goal was to ensure wide coverage and protect as many animals as possible, making sure no island was left behind," stated Provincial Veterinarian, Dr. Flomella Caguicla. "The high number of vaccinated pets, especially dogs and cats, is a testament to the community's cooperation and their understanding of responsible pet ownership."
In addition to vaccinations, 3,278 animals received free veterinary services. This comprehensive care covered a diverse range of livestock and domestic animals, including 120 dogs, 37 cats, 991 pigs, 173 cattle, 335 carabaos, 110 horses, 1,492 chickens, and 20 goats. These services addressed various health needs, contributing to the overall well-being of the animal population in the region.
"Beyond rabies prevention, providing free general check-ups and treatments for livestock and other animals is equally important for the livelihoods of our island communities," Dr. Caguicla added. "Healthy animals mean healthier communities."
The success of this mission was largely due to the strong collaboration between the OPV and the Offices of the Municipal Agriculturist in Polillo, Burdeos, Panukulan, Patnanungan, and Jomalig. Their combined efforts, including logistical support and local knowledge, were instrumental in effectively reaching even the most remote areas and serving more residents and their animals than initially anticipated.
The primary goal of this extensive activity was to maintain and reinforce the Rabies-Free Municipality status of these areas. By consistently vaccinating pets, the program directly protects both the animal population and the human residents from rabies. It also served to promote responsible pet ownership and general animal health.
The OPV continues to urge all residents, especially responsible pet parents (furparents), to actively participate in such vital programs. "We strongly encourage furparents to be responsible pet owners and to consistently bring their animals to these crucial activities," emphasized Dr. Gomez. "Their active participation is not just about their own pets' health, but is essential in ensuring the ongoing safety and health of the entire community against rabies, safeguarding both their beloved pets and the people around them."
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