Big Fix Uganda vaccinate over 200 pets against rabies in pader

16 August 2025, 21:04

By Ekel Bonny Daniel

More than 200 dogs and cats in Pader District received free vaccinations and treatment during a mass veterinary outreach organized by The Big Fix Uganda, aimed at combating rabies and reducing stray animal populations.

The event, held at Pader Town Council headquarters, attracted pet owners from across the district who brought their animals for rabies vaccination, deworming, grooming, and sterilization surgeries.

According to Dr. Godra Ayebazibwe, the Lead Resident Veterinary Doctor and team leader, 205 animals were vaccinated against rabies, 17 underwent spay and neuter surgeries, and all treated animals were also dewormed.

“Rabies is a deadly disease that affects humans as well, mainly through dog bites,” Dr. Ayebazibwe explained.

“By vaccinating dogs every year, we prevent transmission to children, families, and other animals. The spay and neuter surgeries are equally important because they help reduce the number of stray dogs roaming rubbish sites without homes.”

The Assistant District Veterinary Officer, Mr. Bosco Onyango, hailed the exercise as a success.

“We vaccinated more than 200 dogs and 12 cats, but cold weather in the evening made it unsafe to wash puppies, as they could develop pneumonia,” Onyango said.

Amid the statistics and official reports, residents expressed gratitude for the free veterinary care.

Mr. Obwola James, a resident of Lagwai East in Pader Town Council, thanked The Big Fix Uganda in partnership with the Pader District Veterinary Office, led by Dr. Okeny Robert, for offering the services.

“My dog received a neuter surgery, and this will stop it from roaming,” Obwola said. “It will now stay home and help me protect my household.”

Akello Mary, another resident who brought her two dogs for vaccination, also praised the initiative.

“This service has saved us a lot of money,” she said. “As a mother, I feel safer knowing my children are protected from rabies when they play with our dogs. I encourage more women to bring their pets for such programs.”

The outreach highlighted both progress and persistent challenges in rural veterinary care.

While the high turnout shows growing awareness about rabies prevention, infrastructure gaps and limited communication continue to slow down effective service delivery.

Rabies remains a serious public health threat in Uganda, where dog bites are common and many rural households keep unvaccinated pets.

By combining vaccination with sterilization, initiatives like this safeguard human lives while tackling the stray animal crisis in towns like Pader.

As the sun set on Saturday’s exercise, both veterinary officials and residents agreed on the importance of sustained efforts.

Dr. Ayebazibwe promised that The Big Fix Uganda would return next year, reminding communities that protecting animals also protects people.