Through Rain and Resilience: A Day of Veterinary Care in Brgy. Paltit, Badoc, Ilocos Norte

by Gerard de Sagun

After months of dry, unrelenting heat, the sky finally broke open with rainfall comparable to the passing of a weak typhoon. Under these conditions, the team from New Creation Animal Clinic and Diagnostic Center still followed through with their scheduled veterinary mission at Brgy. Paltit, Badoc last May 30, 2025. Despite the unexpected turn of the weather, what unfolded was a day of resilience, care, and community. 

Veterinary care for pets in Brgy. Paltit is practically non-existent. There are no vet clinics nearby, and the municipal veterinarian primarily focuses on livestock. For pet owners, this means that they need to go all the way to Batac City, Ilocos Norte. That’s about a 30 to 40-minute drive in a private (or commissioned) vehicle, since it’s impractical to take public transport with a post-surgery cat or dog in tow.   

In many rural communities such as this (especially among practical-minded households), spending time and money on pet care can sometimes feel like a luxury rather than a necessity. With limited income and pressing daily needs, animals are often viewed through a utilitarian lens—valued for companionship or security, but not always prioritized when it comes to medical attention. This makes accessible veterinary missions not about convenience, but a crucial step in reshaping perceptions around responsible pet ownership.

The need for pet care and pet education was made even more urgent by a sobering fact: according to barangay officials, the community recorded a human rabies case just last year. In response, before the mission officially began, Dr. Jerald Camba, head of the New Creation team, gathered residents and barangay officials for a short but impactful talk on rabies awareness and prevention. It wasn’t formal, but it was deeply needed. With limited resources and high risk factors, knowledge becomes the first line of defense.

According to the latest data provided by the DOH, the Philippines recorded 426 human rabies deaths in 2024, marking a significant increase from 235 cases in 2020. This alarming rise underscores the critical need for enhanced rabies prevention measures. Notably, 41% of these cases were linked to unvaccinated pets, while 56% involved animals with uncertain vaccination status. The fatality rate for rabies remains at 100%, emphasizing the disease's severity and the importance of timely interventions.

Originally expecting 38 cats for surgical services, the team saw only 18 cats make it through the rain. “Heavy downpour really held people back,” the team reported, noting that many pet owners had no carriers and tried to bring their cats by hand. Unfortunately, three cats managed to escape in the commotion, highlighting the need for carriers or cages, but the mission pressed on.

Of the 15 cats that stayed:

• 6 males were neutered

• 9 females were spayed

  
  

Each patient received a complete post-op care package: cone collars, antibiotics, and pain relievers—all provided free.

The team also offered:

• Free consultations

• Anti-rabies vaccinations

• Deworming

• Vitamin injections & supplements

  
  

In total, 73 dogs and cats from Brgy. Paltit were cared for and serviced. 

The veterinary mission ended on a high note thanks to the warmth and hospitality of the barangay. The team was even treated to a relaxing visit to La Virgen Milagrosa Floating Slide & Resort, a moment of rest after a long day of service.

Looking ahead, New Creation Animal Clinic is already preparing for its next mission. In partnership with the One Honda Rider Scooter Club Philippines, plans are underway for another outreach—this time in Vigan City. 

Dr. Jerald Camba emphasized a special focus for this upcoming initiative: “Since cats are especially prone to stress, especially from barking dogs, I prefer to dedicate the next mission to cats only.” After the challenges weathered in Badoc, the team is moving forward with clarity, compassion, and a deepened commitment to making veterinary care more accessible, one barangay at a time.

The success of the mission would not have been possible without the support and open-hearted welcome of Barangay 9, Paltit, Badoc, Ilocos Norte. Special thanks go to Mr. Alfredo Hess Paguyo, Admin Officer of the One Honda Rider Scooter Club Philippines – Ilocos Chapter, whose coordination on the ground helped ensure the mission ran smoothly. We’re also grateful to MiAmore Pet Food for generously providing nourishment for the animals, and to Carchimillican Animal Health Corporation for supplying essential vitamins and supplements. In the face of rain and logistical challenges, it was this spirit of collaboration—from local leaders to civic groups and private donors—that truly made the day one of care, connection, and hope.

Want to support more days like this?

Visit Pawsome Paws Community to learn how you can help us care for community animals through real, on-the-ground efforts — rain or shine, always with heart.