The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), in collaboration with Anambra State Dog Breeders, has intensified efforts to improve dog healthcare and welfare through a large-scale awareness campaign and free anti-rabies vaccination programme in Onitsha.
The initiative formed part of activities marking the first-ever one-day Dog Show organised in the state under the theme, “Dog, Man’s Best Friend.”
The event attracted dog owners, veterinarians, breeders, and dealers in dog-related products from different parts of Anambra State and beyond, with participants calling for sustained campaigns aimed at eliminating rabies and promoting responsible dog ownership.
Declaring the event open, Director of Veterinary Services at the Ministry of Agriculture, Awka, Rose Basil Ejidike, described rabies as a deadly but preventable disease that can spread from animals to humans.
She stressed the importance of vaccinating dogs regularly, noting that the exercise was necessary not only for the safety of animals but also for the protection of families and public health.
Ejidike encouraged participants to spread awareness within their communities on the need for compulsory anti-rabies vaccination and other preventive measures against the disease.
She also advocated responsible dog ownership through proper feeding, regular veterinary attention, vaccination, secure housing, identification, and adequate training of dogs.
According to her, ensuring that pets do not pose threats to public safety remains an important aspect of promoting animal welfare and strengthening the “One Health” concept, which recognises the close connection between human, animal, and environmental health.
Speaking during the programme, Chairman of the NVMA, Anambra State chapter, Victor Ughaerumba, said the association partnered with sponsors and stakeholders to organise the event as part of activities commemorating World Veterinary Day 2026.
He commended veterinarians, supporters, and dog breeders for their contributions towards promoting sustainable animal healthcare and increasing awareness on dog welfare in the state.
Ughaerumba urged dog owners to properly care for their pets by ensuring regular vaccination, deworming, and proper nutrition.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Ifeoma Etukokwu, attributed the success of the event to the support received from stakeholders and sponsors.
She assured that efforts would continue to attract more support for future programmes aimed at deepening awareness on dog healthcare and preventing infections among pets.
A Board of Trustees member of Anambra State Dog Breeders, Emmanuel Anugwalu, disclosed that over 100 dogs participated in the show.
According to him, the event featured several breeds including Rottweilers, Caucasian dogs, Alsatians, German Shepherds, Pit Bulls, Bull Mastiffs, pet dogs, and mongrels.
He reaffirmed the commitment of breeders to producing healthy dog breeds and maintaining strong partnerships with veterinary professionals for improved animal healthcare services.
The programme also featured breed exhibitions, dog competitions, lectures on basic dog training, and the presentation of prizes to outstanding participants.
Hauwa M.
, in collaboration with Anambra State Dog Breeders, has intensified efforts to improve dog healthcare and welfare through a large-scale awareness campaign and free anti-rabies vaccination programme in Onitsha.){kind=link}