MMSU CVM brings vet services to Dumalneg

By Monaliz Nagrampa, 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘡𝘳π˜ͺ𝘣𝘢𝘡𝘰𝘳
To promote animal health and welfare in underserved communities, the MMSU College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) partnered with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Dumalneg, Ilocos Norte, to provide veterinary services across the municipality on May 28.
CVM faculty veterinarians and student volunteers led the initiative. A total of 90 pet dogs and cats underwent health assessments, anti-rabies vaccination, deworming, and vitamin supplementation. Of these, 39 were spayed or neutered to help control the animal population in the community. The activity also provided hands-on learning opportunities for students in community outreach, preventive medicine, and animal population management.
In his message, Dumalneg Mayor Francis Espiritu described the activity as β€œa dream come true,” noting that keeping animals and pets healthy has long been one of the municipality’s priorities for the welfare of the community.
Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Atty. Fraincess Kwyn Espiritu thanked MMSU CVM for partnering with the municipality and helping make the veterinary mission possible. She also reminded the community of the importance of addressing rabies, especially given the continued threat of the disease in the community.
For his part, MMSU CVM Dean Melvin Bagot thanked LGU Dumalneg for its hospitality and cooperation during the activity. He expressed hope that the partnership would expand in the future to include veterinary services for livestock and poultry.
β€œThe MMSU CVM is grateful to the Municipality of Dumalneg for their warm welcome to our faculty and students and for their proactive initiatives on rabies prevention and animal welfare. We are looking forward to future endeavors involving livestock and poultry,” Dr. Bagot said.
Through its extension program titled β€œACHIEVE: Zero Rabies in Ilocos Norte,” MMSU CVM continues to work with local government units and community stakeholders in promoting rabies prevention, responsible pet ownership, and accessible veterinary care throughout the province.