The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NMVA), in collaboration with Anambra State dog breeders, has taken a major step towards improving dog welfare and veterinary healthcare services in Anambra State.
The initiative followed a one-day inaugural “Dog Show” held in Onitsha, which also featured free anti-rabies vaccination for dogs. Participants at the event called for the continuation of the programme to help achieve a rabies-free canine population and improve public health safety.
The event, themed “Dog, Man’s Best Friend,” brought together dog owners, veterinarians, breeders, and pet product dealers from across the state and beyond.
Declaring the show open, the Director of Veterinary Services in the Ministry of Agriculture, Awka, Dr Mrs Rose Basil Ejidike, stressed the importance of vaccination, describing rabies as a deadly but preventable zoonotic disease.
She noted that the free anti-rabies vaccination campaign demonstrated the shared responsibility of ensuring animal and human safety, urging dog owners to ensure their pets are vaccinated in their communities.
Ejidike also advocated responsible dog ownership, including proper feeding, routine veterinary care, vaccination, safe housing, identification, and adequate training.
She further emphasised the importance of the One Health concept, which recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
The Chairman of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association Anambra State Chapter, Dr Victor Ughaerumba, said the association was proud to collaborate with partners and sponsors to deliver the initiative.
He explained that the dog show formed part of activities marking the celebration of World Veterinary Day 2026 in the state.
Ughaerumba commended stakeholders, veterinary doctors, and supporters for their contributions to promoting sustainable animal health and awareness on dog welfare.
“Veterinary doctors do a lot concerning animal and public health in Anambra State. But more importantly, see other dogs and appreciate how much effort people have taken to care for their dogs,” he said.
He urged dog owners to maintain proper care routines, including regular vaccination, deworming, and adequate feeding.
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Dr Mrs Ifeoma Etukokwu, attributed the success of the event to stakeholder collaboration and pledged to attract more sponsorship to deepen awareness on dog healthcare and welfare.
A Board of Trustees member of the Anambra State Dog Breeders Association, Mr Emmanuel Anugwalu, said no fewer than 100 dogs participated in the event, including Rottweilers, Caucasian Shepherds, German Shepherds, Pit Bulls, Bull Mastiffs, and mixed breeds.
He reaffirmed the breeders’ commitment to producing healthy dog breeds while strengthening collaboration with veterinary professionals.
He also appreciated sponsors for their support, noting that the initiative would enhance awareness and promote responsible dog breeding.
