The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) is emphasizing the importance of responsible pet ownership in light of World Rabies Day, celebrated annually on September 28. Dr. Oluwatoyin Adetuberu, the National President of the NVMA, stressed the significance of pet owners keeping their animals within their premises and ensuring they receive full rabies vaccinations. This call to action comes as part of a broader global effort to raise awareness about rabies prevention and to highlight the ongoing progress in combating this deadly disease.
World Rabies Day is observed under the theme “All for 1- One Health for All” in 2023, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human and animal health. The NVMA’s advocacy seeks to underscore the critical role pet owners play in preventing the spread of rabies, not only protecting their animals but also contributing to public health efforts. Rabies remains a significant public health concern in many parts of the world, making responsible pet ownership a vital component of global rabies prevention initiatives.
“All pet owners should please be responsible.”
The veterinarian, who described the challenges posed by rabies in the country as enormous and devastating, explained that “anybody bitten by a rabid dog may not be productive.”
According to her, there is no cure for rabies and the only way is to prevent it.
The NVMA president advised the government to employ more veterinarians who would be involved in the vaccination of dogs across the country.
She said, “We want the government to provide vaccines and also employ the manpower required to fight rabies.
“Veterinarians in Nigeria are at the forefront of the campaign against rabies and we are doing this by collaborating and joining forces across sectors, engaging communities, and committing to sustain the dog vaccination together.”
Adetuberu advised all sectors to pursue animal health, environmental health, and plant health “for us to sustain human health.”
