Ho, Volta Region — September 15, 2026: Pet owners across the Volta Region are being encouraged to take advantage of Ghana’s nationwide free rabies vaccination campaign targeting dogs and cats in identified high-risk areas.
The campaign, being led by the Veterinary Services Department (VSD) of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, aims to vaccinate 25,000 dogs and cats across the country during September 2026.
The initiative forms part of Ghana’s efforts to achieve zero human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030 and coincides with activities marking World Rabies Month.
Free vaccination throughout September
According to information released by the Veterinary Services Department, vaccination will be provided free of charge throughout September 2026. Prescribed fees will apply after the free vaccination period ends.
Pet owners in the Volta Region are therefore being encouraged to contact veterinary authorities in their respective districts and municipalities to find out about vaccination arrangements and ensure their dogs and cats are protected.
The campaign also includes intensified public education through schools, religious institutions, traditional and social media platforms and community engagements.
Educational materials, including audio messages and videos, are also being made available in Ewe, Twi, Ga and Hausa to improve public awareness and reach communities across the country.
Rabies remains a serious public health threat
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that can spread from infected animals to humans, most commonly through bites or scratches.
The Veterinary Services Department has stressed that rabies is virtually 100 per cent fatal once symptoms develop, but the disease is preventable through vaccination and timely medical intervention.
Pet owners have consequently been urged to vaccinate their dogs and cats every year and to ensure that animals are properly controlled.
What to do after an animal bite or scratch
Health authorities are advising anyone who is bitten or scratched by an animal to:
- Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and running water.
- Seek medical attention immediately at the nearest health facility.
- Report the animal involved to the nearest veterinary centre.
- Avoid waiting for symptoms to develop before seeking treatment.
The Veterinary Services Department has also reminded the public that failure to vaccinate pets may constitute an offence under applicable Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assembly (MMDA) bye-laws.
Call for public cooperation
The Department is appealing to MMDAs, traditional and religious authorities, civil society organisations, development partners and private-sector organisations to support the campaign through community mobilisation, public education, logistics and other resources.
For residents of the Volta Region, the campaign provides an opportunity to help protect both pets and communities from a disease that remains preventable through vaccination.
Pet owners are encouraged to contact their nearest veterinary centre for information about vaccination locations and schedules.
Source: Veterinary Services Department, Ministry of Food and Agriculture.
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