Manila, Feb. 18 -- The City Veterinary Office (CVO) here is urging dog owners to register their pets in compliance with a city ordinance and to strengthen the local anti-rabies program.

Dr. John Michael Cabuguason, the assistant city veterinarian, said in an interview on Tuesday that the registration of dogs would provide the CVO the data to determine the budget to be allocated for the purchase of anti-rabies vaccines.

"Aside from the fact that it is mandated by the law, it is also important that we have data for budget allocation. We don't want any pets left behind because we don't have the accurate data," he added.

He said this would also help the CVO in terms of regulating canine-related activities.

Registration of dogs is provided...