Michel Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike has commenced a crusade against rabies disease in the state.
The University in conjunction with the Abia State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development kicked off the free vaccination of dogs and cats in the state to protect the local community from rabies.
In a statement, the University said the campaign to protect Abians from rabies, which is considered deadly will run through the month of May.
It noted that it is suicidal to own or live with dogs and cats that are not vaccinated against rabies as a single bite from an infected animal can cause death and compromise the safety of the neighbourhood.
Meanwhile, some dog owners, especially those from rural areas of Umuahia and Ikwuano LGAs who rear local species of dogs have begun to take their dogs to the University for the ongoing vaccination.