Barangay officials in Lasip, Calasiao, Pangasinan have strictly enforced a ban on roaming or unleashed dogs as part of efforts to control stray animals and prevent rabies cases in the community.

Authorities have been conducting regular rounds to catch stray dogs, although most of the animals are later returned to their owners due to the lack of a local dog impounding facility.

Barangay officials said the absence of an impound center remains a major challenge in fully enforcing the policy.

“’Yun ang problema namin kasi wala kaming impounding facility, lahat din ng mahuhuli namin ibabalik namin,” Salvador Ferrer, barangay councilor of Lasip, said.

The issue is not limited to Lasip, as other barangays in Calasiao also face the same lack of facilities for stray animals.

Despite this, the local government continues its vaccination program for pets, aiming to raise protection against rabies.

According to the Municipal Veterinary Office, only about 50 percent of the estimated dog population in the town has been vaccinated so far.

A vaccination schedule has been set in different barangays as part of ongoing veterinary missions, with the goal of reaching full coverage.

Dr. George Bandong, municipal veterinarian, said the program will continue to monitor and protect animals across the town.

“Patuloy ang aming veterinary mission para mamonitor lahat ng mga alaga,” Bandong said.

Allan Fabito, a resident, said the stricter enforcement helps improve safety, especially for children in the community.

“Mas okay na nakatali kasi at least safe lalo na ang mga bata,” he said.

Local officials continue to urge pet owners to be responsible in caring for their dogs and cats as part of efforts to reach a zero-rabies target in the municipality.