BACOLOD City — The municipality of E.B. Magalona, Negros Occidental, is set to hold a unique pet event at the town’s covered court today, September 29.
Dubbed the “Pet Pawshion Show,” the event will feature dogs and cats, highlighting the town’s observance of this year’s World Rabies Day.
Prior to the show, a Pet Buddy Fun Run and Walk will kick off at 8 a.m.
Mayor Matthew Louis Malacon emphasized that the event goes beyond showcasing pets.
“The Pet Pawshion Show is an initiative to raise awareness about responsible pet ownership,” he said.
E.B. Magalona had long been a rabies-free municipality, a legacy instituted by former mayor and now Vice Mayor Marvin Malacon. However, records from the Municipal Health Office show that the town has been averaging 100 animal bite cases per month over the past year.
“Our goal now is to make E.B. Magalona not only rabies-free but also animal-bite-free as soon as possible,” Malacon said. “This event is a powerful way to encourage every Saraviahanon to be responsible fur parents.”
The mayor stressed that animal bites are not ordinary injuries.
“They can be frightening and, if not properly treated, may lead to infection or even life-threatening diseases,” he warned.
Supporting the initiative are the town’s health and agriculture offices, which will provide additional services during the event. Aside from the fun run and pawshion show, attendees can also avail of free spay and neuter services, animal consultations, and anti-rabies vaccinations for their pets.
The mayor urged all Saraviahanons — fur dads and moms alike — to participate in today’s activities, take advantage of the free services, and learn more about responsible pet ownership.
“A rabies-free and animal-bite-free community is a healthy community,” he concluded./PN
