Oyo State Government Mandates Rabies Vaccination for Dogs and Cats

The Oyo State government has taken a bold step to curb the spread of rabies by mandating that residents vaccinate their dogs and cats annually. This directive is in line with the Oyo State Dog Law of 2019, which aims to prevent the spread of rabies and other zoonotic diseases.

Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Olaleye Olasunkanmi, emphasized the importance of pet vaccinations, stating, “The best way to prevent rabies in humans is by vaccinating dogs and cats at least once a year. Human rabies deaths, according to research, are 100 per cent preventable with prompt vaccination of dogs and cats.”

Olasunkanmi urged dog and cat owners who have not yet vaccinated their pets to do so immediately by visiting veterinary centers in the state. He also highlighted that research shows most rabies cases result from dog bites, making it essential to keep dogs confined and vaccinated regularly.

To enforce compliance, the government has announced a fine of N250,000 or six months’ imprisonment, or both, for offenders who fail to vaccinate their pets annually. Additionally, allowing dogs to roam without their owners is a violation of the Oyo State Dog Law of 2019.

The state government has adopted an all-inclusive approach to controlling rabies and other zoonotic diseases. This includes conducting free mass vaccinations for cattle under the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery initiative.

John Famoyin, state Chairman of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association, commended the government’s initiatives but urged effective implementation of the Dog Law to enhance public health and safety.