Paranaque encourages responsible feeding and care of stray animals 

As the number of rabies cases in Parañaque City continues to rise, Mayor Eric Olivarez has issued additional reminders for people who feed stray dogs and cats in public and private places. In a memorandum released on March 20, the city chief urged Parañaque residents to be responsible in feeding stray animals to prevent the spread of rabies.

Mayor Eric emphasized the need for people to seek permission from the Homeowners Associations and building administrators and to follow the guidelines set by the city government. These guidelines include the provisions of the Anti Rabies Act of 2007, Animal Welfare Act of 1998, and Sanitation Code of the Philippines.

In addition, the guidelines require annual vaccination against rabies and neutering of pets, which can be availed for free at the Parañaque City Veterinary Services Office or private veterinary clinics. The mayor also reminded people to ensure that animals are microchipped, ear notched, collared, and tagged.

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Feeding stations must also be designated, and the areas must be kept clean. People must assign a caretaker for the animals and bring them to veterinary clinics if they get sick. If a person gets bitten or scratched by a dog or cat, it must be reported and referred to the local government or barangay within 24 hours. Animal bite treatment centers are also available in Barangay La Huerta, San Isidro, BF Homes, Sun Valley, San Martin De Porres, Don Bosco, and San Antonio. People can also go to the Parañaque I Hospital for animal bite treatment services.

As the chairperson of the Paranaque Animal Response Team (PART), Mayor Eric asked for cooperation, help, and understanding from everyone to prevent the further increase in rabies cases in the city. The responsible feeding and care for stray animals can go a long way in preventing the spread of the deadly virus.