GIANYAR, DEWATA.NEWS – A large-scale animal health campaign in Gianyar drew strong public participation on Sunday (April 19, 2026), as authorities combined the city’s 255th anniversary celebrations with World Veterinary Day through a mass sterilization and rabies vaccination program.
The initiative, organized by the Animal Health Center (UPTD Puskeswan III) under the Gianyar Agriculture Office, was held in Banjar Gelumpang, Sukawati Village. A total of 110 dogs and cats were sterilized, while another 350 animals received rabies vaccinations during the one-day event.
High turnout from local residents led to the quota being filled quickly, forcing organizers to conclude services earlier than scheduled due to overwhelming demand.
Head of UPTD Puskeswan III Gianyar, Dr. I Nyoman Arya Dharma, said the response reflects growing public awareness of responsible pet ownership and animal health.
“Public enthusiasm was very high, and the sterilization quota was fully met. This shows increasing awareness not only in controlling animal populations, but also in the importance of collective rabies prevention,” he said.
He added that combining sterilization and vaccination efforts is essential for maintaining public health and environmental balance.
“Sterilization helps reduce overpopulation, while vaccination is key to protecting communities from zoonotic diseases, especially rabies, which remains a serious concern in Bali,” he explained.
The program involved collaboration across multiple organizations, including veterinary professionals, agricultural groups, conservation communities, and students from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Udayana University.
Local authorities hope similar programs will continue in the future to manage stray animal populations and support a safer, healthier environment for both residents and their pets.