DA 6 Conducts Multi-Stakeholders Workshop On Humane Dog Pound Management by James Earl E. Ogatis

DA 6 Conducts Multi-Stakeholders Workshop On Humane Dog Pound Management

Atty. Heidi M. Caguica of Animal Kingdom Foundation answering questions raised by Dr. Leo-nil Abordo, the Provincial Veterinarian from the province of Capiz on proper transportation, handling practices of animals in rural areas, implementation of RA 8485 and devolution of livestock personnel at Hotel del Rio, Iloilo City (JEEOgatis photo)

Amidst issues on dog impounding happening there in Iloilo City, the Department of Agriculture 6-Regulatory Division spearheaded the conduct of a three day multi stakeholder’s workshop on humane dog pound management in Western Visayas which started on August 25, 2015.

Dr. Jonic F. Natividad, Chief of DA Regulatory Division said that the workshop aimed to create awareness on Republic Act 8485 known as Animal Welfare Act of 1998 as amended by RA 10631 and RA 9482 known as Anti Rabies Act of 2007.

Natividad stressed that awareness on these Republic Acts is in line with the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) integration wherein the DA is strengthening its stakeholders for a safe, rabies-free and animal friendly community.

Meanwhile, Dr. Daniel C. Ventura, Jr., Project Manager of World Animal Protection Asia Pacific (WAPAP) said that rabies incidence is the root why we have to impound dogs, keep dogs out of the streets and regulate dog population in our community.

He said that dogs are exposed to risk of danger if they are left roaming on the streets. Dogs can be stoned by anyone, bump by vehicles, bitten by other dogs, expose to pest and diseases, expose to extreme climatic condition and many other adverse conditions.

Ventura emphasized that in implementing the law, compassion to the dog should be kept in mind by all people involved. We should first know the industry of dog impounding, intensify awareness on responsible pet ownership and educate people/community on RA 10631.

Dr. Ma. Gracia N. Dizon-Flores, the National Animal Welfare Focal Person from the Bureau of Animal Industry discussed the topics on Legal Basis for animal welfare act RA 8485 and RA 10631, Rules and Regulations on Dog Pound Management, Rules and Regulation On Shelter and Rules and Regulation on Euthanasia method on dogs and cats.

Atty. Heidi M. Caguica tackled the topics Best Practices On Sheltering and Humane Handling Of Dogs while the topic on Legal Basis of Anti-Rabies Act of 2007 was given by Dr. Daphne L. Jorca,

The Registration of Animal Facilities was given Mr. Armelo F. Mauro, Comprehensive Approach On Dog Population Management by Dr. Daniel F. Ventura, Jr., and Role of DILG In Establishing Dog Pounds Among LGUs by Engr. Emelita V. Danganan.

The workshop was attended by the provincial veterinarians, livestock technicians, representatives from the animal welfare organizations and private sectors, local government units, dog owners and animal enthusiasts in Western Visayas. /MP