Responsible pet ownership and basic animal rights were underscored during the first-ever Animal Welfare Summit (AWS) in Bacolod City Sunday, August 29.
With the theme “Making Bacolod a Friendly and Safe Haven for Pets, Stray and Pet Lovers Alike,” the event was conducted to address the increasing number of stray cats and dogs in the city, a press release from the Bacolod Public Information Office said.
Spearheaded by the Bacolod City Animal Welfare Task Force (BACAW-TF) chaired by Mayor Evelio Leonardia, the AWS also highlighted the importance of animal spaying and neutering.
“We are promoting ‘spay and neuter’ to protect both the animals and the city. This is just the beginning of a better and animal-friendly Bacolod,” said PAWSsion Project PH head Malou Perez, who gave an educational talk on the subject.
Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran, in his message, congratulated private organizations advocating animal rights and the BACAW-TF for jointly mounting the event as he lauded them for their synergy and cooperation.
Councilor Renecito Novero, a dog owner himself, commended Leonardia for the latter’s efforts to make Bacolod an animal-friendly city.
PAWSsion Project Ph and BACH Project Ph are private partners of the city government in organizing the summit.
The City Veterinary Office offered 500 free anti-rabies vaccination shots for pets of attending dog owners.
Attendees were also given free pet food at the “Community Pawntry,” sponsored by TopBreed.
The event also featured a basic dog obedience training, led by Spy Dekeling, and the staging of an animal adoption booth dubbed as “Give Furbuddy a Home Program.”
The BACAW-TF also gave out stickers as part of its massive “brake for animals” campaign.
BACH Project PH representative Daniel Sam Salvatierra said animal owners should be responsible for their own pets.
Police Maj. Sherlock Gabana emphasized the importance of respect for basic animal rights.
The BACAW-TF said minimum health protocols were observed during the event.*