BAGUIO CITY – In a bid to fortify its dedication to safeguarding the welfare of animals, the Department of Agriculture-Cordillera’s (DA-CAR) Regulatory Division in collaboration with the City Veterinary and Agriculture Office (CVAO) of Baguio City spearheaded an Orientation-Seminar on Animal Welfare National and Local Legislations for Pet Breeders last August 11, 2023, in El Cielito Hotel, Baguio City.
Initiated by Paws-Tura Pet Supplies and Accessories Shop, an animal event organizer based in the City, the activity was conducted to intensify the department’s commitment on the implementation of Republic Act (RA) 8485 as amended by RA 10631, also known as “The Animal Welfare Act of 1998,” to protect and promote the welfare of all animals in the country.
It also served as a venue to strengthen collaboration with the private stakeholders in upholding the implementation of animal welfare in all aspects, to orient participants on RA 8485 as amended, its implementing rules and regulations (IRRs), and registration procedures to encourage unregistered facilities to register and most importantly, to increase awareness on the local ordinances regarding pet ownership and enterprises. Regulations governing kennels, pet shops, and animal events; registration, and inspection and monitoring procedures were also presented and explained to the participants.
Relative to achieving animal welfare enhancement, Dr. Gladys C. Bantog from CVAO, reminded the participants of their legal obligations in upholding animal welfare. Her message underscored the importance of being well-informed about the laws governing animal care and protection.
Meanwhile, Mark Anthony A. Abalos, owner/proprietor of Paws-tura Pet Supplies and Accessories Shop, introduced the “Pet Expo” concept as an innovative means to support pet breeders. He emphasized the need for education on both national and local legislations concerning animal welfare and ensuring that market activities are conducted ethically.
Dr. Hynden C. Luma-ang from CVAO, also provided a comprehensive discussion on the local ordinances that the participants are expected to adhere to. These include the City Ordinance No. 18 and Resolution No. 266, series of 2021, which encompass “The Responsible Dog Ownership Ordinance of Baguio City.” The responsibilities of dog owners were emphasized, specifically on the following: (1) Five Freedoms of Animals (2) Mandatory Registration (3) Regular Vaccination, (4) Proper Waste Disposal (5) Securing of Dogs, and (6) Reporting of Dog-bite Incidents. Moreover, Dr. Luma-ang informed the participants about the existing registration of dogs, breeders, and kennel facilities in Baguio City including penalties for non-compliance.
The activity served as an informative gateway for emerging pet breeders in the city and is poised to extend beyond municipal boundaries. The department envisions the dissemination of essential information throughout the entire region in order to facilitate a collective effort to continue working towards an animal welfare-involved Cordillera. By Regulatory Division