The Big Fix Uganda vaccinates 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 organised 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 sterilisation 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 also affects humans, primarily through dog bites,” Dr Ayebazibwe explained.

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

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

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

Amid the statistics and official reports, residents expressed their 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 providing the services.

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

Akello Mary, another resident who brought her two dogs for vaccination, also commended 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 to such programmes.”

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

While the high turnout demonstrates growing awareness of rabies prevention, infrastructure gaps and limited communication continue to hinder 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 sterilisation, initiatives like this safeguard human lives while addressing the stray animal crisis in towns such as Pader.

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

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