BACOLOD City — The City Veterinary Office of Bacolod (CVO) has intensified its search for a stray dog that reportedly bit seven individuals near the Bacolod Public Plaza, raising concerns over public safety and possible rabies exposure.
Assistant City Veterinarian Dr. Janine Sarthou confirmed that seven bite incidents had been recorded as of Monday, February 23.
Sarthou said the CVO began scouring the affected areas on February 24 and has continued daily operations to locate the animal.
“For public safety, we have thoroughly gone around the areas to search for the dog. We have not stopped because the dog is considered dangerous,” she said.
The dog was described as a small brown canine that appears to limp. It was reportedly seen roaming along San Sebastian and Araneta Streets, passing through the Plazamart area and heading toward the plaza.
Some of the victims were reportedly walking near Plazamart when they were suddenly bitten without provocation, Sarthou said.
She explained that most stray dogs are not vaccinated unless they are rescued and brought to the city’s dog pound, where they are administered anti-rabies shots.
Sarthou noted that managing stray dogs remains a challenge due to the lack of identification markers, making it difficult to determine whether an animal has an owner or has previously been vaccinated.
The CVO is also prioritizing the vaccination of dogs in schools and in areas with reported bite cases as part of its intensified rabies prevention campaign.
Sarthou added that the office has yet to reach all seven victims but is closely coordinating with the City Health Office of Bacolod (CHO) to verify whether the individuals have sought medical treatment.
Authorities urged those bitten to immediately proceed to the CHO for post-exposure prophylaxis.
“It is better to receive anti-rabies prophylaxis and follow CHO protocols, especially since the dog reportedly attacked people without any provocation. For safety purposes, please get vaccinated,” Sarthou emphasized./PN
