IWCT is celebrating World Rabies Day on Saturday 28th September 2024. We have been vaccinating dogs against rabies since we began our veterinary clinics in the Philippines nearly 25 years ago. Our mission is to help the Philippines become “Rabies Free by 2030” a government backed, nationwide campaign. Sadly rabies still takes approx 300 human Filipino lives every year and 1000’s more canine lives. By offering the rabies vaccine for free at our clinics, we are doing our bit to reduce the incidence of rabies cases in the country. 

Why Vaccinate Your Dog Against Rabies?

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of the rabies disease. Vaccinating dogs is not just a part of being a responsible pet owner; it is a public health duty. 

Here’s why vaccinating your dog against rabies is crucial:

1. Protection: Rabies is 100% preventable with vaccination. By ensuring that your dog is vaccinated, you protect them from a painful and fatal disease.
2. Safeguards Human Health: Since most human cases of rabies in the Philippines result from dog bites, vaccinating your pets significantly reduces the risk of transmission to people.
3. Prevents Outbreaks: Vaccinated dogs act as a barrier against the spread of rabies. Herd immunity, achieved when a large percentage of the dog population is vaccinated, helps to prevent the virus from spreading in the community.
4. Complies with Legal Requirements: The Philippine government mandates rabies vaccination for pets, particularly dogs. Compliance helps in the nationwide effort to eliminate rabies by 2030, a goal set in collaboration with international health organisations.
5. Promotes Responsible Pet Ownership: Vaccinating your pets is part of responsible pet ownership. It shows that you are committed to their health and well-being and that you care about the safety of your community.

How Can You Help?

1. Vaccinate Your Dog Regularly: Make sure your dog is up-to-date with their rabies vaccinations. Puppies should receive their first rabies shot at three months of age, followed by regular boosters as recommended by your veterinarian.
2. Educate Your Community: Spread awareness about rabies and the importance of vaccination. Many cases of rabies are preventable with the right information and action. Download our PDF leaflet here.
3. Support Rabies Control Programs: Participate in or support local rabies vaccination drives and spay/neuter programs, which help to reduce the population of stray dogs and control the spread of the virus. IWCT runs a weekly Consultation Clinic every Tuesday where you can get the Rabies Vaccine
4. Avoid Contact with Stray or Wild Animals: Educate children and vulnerable members of your community to avoid stray or unfamiliar animals, especially if they appear unwell or exhibit aggressive behaviour.
5. Make A Donation: Help IWCT in our mission to eradicate rabies by making a donation towards the cost of the vaccine and the syringes and needles required to administer it. 

Conclusion

This year to date, IWCT has given out 5,041 vaccinations to dogs in The Philippines. By the end of the year this number is likely to reach 7,000. That’s over £4,200 or PHP315,000 in funds on the vaccine alone. To celebrate World Rabies Day, please consider making a donation towards our Anti Rabies Campaign and help us support The Philippines in their mission to become a Rabies Free Country by 2030.