Phuket Province in Thailand is on its way to becoming the first provincial-level rabies-free area in the country. The Soi Dog Foundation, an animal welfare development agency, has been working tirelessly for 20 years to sterilize and vaccinate dogs and cats in Phuket. The foundation recently congratulated Dr. Tares Kassanairawiwong, the Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, for announcing the joint efforts of various departments and Phuket Province to achieve this certification.
International health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Campaign for Rabies Control (GARC) have emphasized the importance of eradicating rabies in dogs to prevent its spread to humans. Vaccinating 70% of dogs in an area can effectively stop the transmission of rabies. Similarly, spaying 80% of dogs can help control their population. The Soi Dog Foundation has already sterilized and vaccinated over 80% of dogs in Phuket, contributing significantly to the eradication of rabies.
Veterinarian Tantikon Rungpatana, director of the Thailand Dog and Cat Population Control Project, expressed delight at the announcement and the foundation’s long-standing desire to make Phuket a disease-free area. However, there are still certain requirements and conditions to be met, such as conducting a survey of the dog and cat population involved in the rabies epidemic. The foundation is willing to cooperate with all sectors to officially declare Phuket as the first rabies-free province in Thailand.
Since 2003, the Soi Dog Foundation has collaborated with public and private agencies in Phuket to address the issue of stray dogs and cats. They have provided sterilization and vaccination services in each sub-district, established a community outreach program for animal welfare services, and conducted animal welfare education programs in schools. The foundation believes that solving the problem of stray animals requires the integration of all sectors, and they are ready to expand their efforts to other areas.
To further discuss the elimination of rabies in Phuket, the Director-General of the Department of Disease Control and other relevant agencies plan to meet in July. They will also visit the Soi Dog shelter to learn more about the CNVR (Catch-Neuter-Vaccinate-Release) project, which has been instrumental in the foundation’s efforts.
The Soi Dog Foundation has been actively supporting the elimination of rabies in Thailand for two decades. In 2022 alone, they treated over 10,000 injured dogs and cats through community animal welfare service programs. Additionally, more than 11,000 students participated in their animal welfare education programs. The foundation continues to work on various projects and has expanded its operations to other provinces, including Bangkok and the southern regions. They aim to neuter over one million animals by the end of the year.
With the combined efforts of the Soi Dog Foundation, government agencies, and the public and private sectors, Phuket is on the path to becoming the first rabies-free province in Thailand. This achievement will not only ensure the safety of the local community but also serve as a model for other regions to follow in the fight against rabies.
How will conducting a survey of the dog and cat population involved in the rabies eradication program contribute to the maintenance of routine vaccinations and sterilization efforts in Phuket Province
Bies eradication program, as well as maintaining routine vaccinations and sterilization efforts.
Phuket Province has made tremendous progress in the fight against rabies, thanks to the efforts of organizations like the Soi Dog Foundation. The foundation has been working tirelessly to sterilize and vaccinate dogs and cats on the island for the past two decades. Their hard work has paid off, with over 80% of dogs in Phuket already sterilized and vaccinated.
The announcement by Dr. Tares Kassanairawiwong, the Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, is a major milestone in the province’s quest to become the first rabies-free area in Thailand. The joint efforts of various departments and Phuket Province have been credited for this achievement.
International health organizations such as WHO and GARC have stressed the importance of eradicating rabies in dogs to prevent its transmission to humans. Vaccinating at least 70% of dogs and spaying 80% of them can effectively control the spread of the disease. The Soi Dog Foundation’s sterilization and vaccination efforts have significantly contributed to the eradication of rabies in Phuket.
Dr. Tantikon Rungpatana, director of the Thailand Dog and Cat Population Control Project, expressed happiness and satisfaction at the news. The foundation’s dedication to making Phuket a disease-free area has been a long-standing goal. However, there are still certain requirements and conditions that need to be met. A survey of the dog and cat population involved in the rabies eradication program must be conducted, and regular vaccinations and sterilization efforts need to be maintained.
Phuket Province’s progress in becoming a rabies-free area is commendable, and it serves as an example for other regions in Thailand and beyond. The joint efforts of organizations, governmental agencies, and the local community have been instrumental in achieving this milestone. With continued dedication and support, the goal of eliminating rabies in Phuket is within reach.
It’s great to see the Soi Dog Foundation’s efforts being recognized in Phuket’s mission to become Thailand’s first rabies-free province. Their dedication to animal welfare and vaccination campaigns will undoubtedly bring positive change and ensure the safety of both animals and the local community. Well done!