Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. is urging pet owners to prioritize their pets’ health by getting them vaccinated against rabies in the Bakuna sa Barangay program of the City Veterinary Office.

The Mayor revealed the high demand of human anti-rabies vaccines due to the escalating number of rabies cases in the city. He aims to address the growing health concerns and ensure the well-being of both pets and residents in Angeles City.

“I am calling on all pet owners to have your pets vaccinated at Bakuna sa Barangay program of the City Veterinarian Office.” Mayor Lazatin said.

Mayor Lazatin convened an emergency meeting with City Health Officer Dr. Verona Guevarra, City Veterinarian Dr. Christian Xyric Arcilla, and Angeles City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Rudy Simeon to discuss the current situation.

Lazatin ordered the 33 barangay captains of the city to establish a no kill animal shelter for stray animals to manage their population and provide anti-rabies vaccinations

“Given the numerous cases of dog bites, it has become an emergency crisis, and the solution we are considering is by vaccinating all the pets.” Mayor Lazatin said.

Since Mayor Lazatin took office in 2019, a total of 130,520 pets — 93,075 dogs, and 37,445 cats — in the 33 barangays have already received their free anti-rabies vaccinations.

This initiative aims to address animal welfare and public health concerns within the city.