Dog owners in Perlis have been advised to safely confine their pets within their premises to prevent the risk of another rabies outbreak.

State Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Committee chairman Ahmad Bakri Ali said although the situation was now under control, it was still necessary for the dog owners to take precautions.

The Rabies Control Order under the Animal Act 1953 is still being enforced as a health measure following the outbreak of the disease in Perlis on Aug 19, he told reporters here today.

He also advised dog owners not to transfer their animals to another place without getting an approval from the authorities.

"They must also inform the authorities immediately if any of their pets dies as a result of illness, as well as ensure that the animals were given the yearly anti-rabies jab," he said.

According to Ahmad Bakri, there had been 56 dog bite cases between July 27 and Nov 19 in Perlis, of which 16 were confirmed positive for rabies.