Every year on World Rabies Day, we are reminded that vaccination is the key to protecting both our pets and our communities. Prevention saves lives, and ensuring pets are vaccinated is the most effective action we can take.
When we see our furry friends happy and healthy, it brings us so much joy. Yet, they depend entirely on us to stay safe from invisible threats like rabies. They deserve to live without fear, and we have the power to make that a reality.
Why It Matters
Rabies is one of the oldest and most feared diseases worldwide. Bites or scratches can transmit the disease, and once symptoms manifest, the outcome is almost always fatal.
That’s what makes prevention so important. In the Philippines, rabies continues to be a public health concern, with cases ranging from 200 to 300 every year. What makes this especially heartbreaking is that these can be avoided.
World Rabies Day, observed annually on September 28, sheds a global spotlight on this fight. In the Philippines, vaccination drives have been a lifeline. For over a decade, groups like Bounty have worked hand in hand with local government units and animal welfare advocates to provide free vaccinations to pet owners who may not have the means to afford them. With thousands of cats and dogs vaccinated, these campaigns have been a quiet but powerful force in keeping communities safe.
It’s Our Best Tool
Vaccination drives are a crucial component of any effective plan to control rabies. They are the most direct way to create a shield against the disease. When we vaccinate more animals, especially dogs, we significantly reduce the risk of rabies spreading to people. Think of it as a community shield. The more animals that are vaccinated, the stronger that shield is. It’s not just about giving one pet a shot; it’s about giving enough of them a shot to protect everyone. This protects not only the vaccinated animals but also those who cannot receive the shot due to their age or health. Besides health benefits, these drives also teach people important things. They bring people together and open up conversations about being a responsible pet owner, getting pets spayed or neutered, and spotting the signs of rabies. This helps people understand that regular veterinary care is a normal part of life, which benefits all the animals in the community.
A Community That Cares
Just like any family member, pets deserve to be protected. Vaccinating our pets is the simplest and most effective way to shield them from rabies. It also protects us, since most human rabies cases are caused by dog bites. By stopping the virus at its source, we keep homes and neighborhoods safer.
As a company deeply rooted in communities where we operate, Bounty, through its socio-civic arm, Bounty Cares Foundation, and other Bounty Farm operations teams, conducted a series of anti-rabies vaccination drives. We believe that creating meaningful change is a responsibility shared by every organization.
In 2025, a total of 35 areas were covered, where 2,754 cats and dogs were successfully vaccinated by administering 4,400 doses.
Through these vaccination drives, pet owners can rest easy knowing their beloved companions are protected. These drives create opportunities for people to learn about responsible pet ownership, reminding us that caring for our furry companions is truly worth it.
A free vaccine can mean the difference between a pet staying healthy and being at risk. And when one pet is vaccinated, the entire community benefits. The fewer unvaccinated pets around, the smaller the chance of rabies spreading. It’s a ripple effect that starts with one simple act of care.
A Team Effort
These campaigns also highlight what happens when people work together. Companies like Bounty have demonstrated that businesses can play an important role in promoting community health. By partnering with LGUs and animal welfare groups, they’ve proven that fighting rabies is a shared responsibility.
The impact reaches far beyond preventing bites and infections. Every vaccinated pet represents love in action. It’s a dog that can run freely without putting others at risk. It’s a cat that can safely nap on your lap without worry. And it’s a family that can sleep soundly at night, knowing they’ve done their part to protect both their pet and their community.
Over time, these efforts also help change how pets are seen, not as risks, but as loved companions who deserve care and attention.
Join the fight this World Rabies Day. Support vaccination drives in your area and help us take action against rabies.
