DA-10 through its Regulatory Division promotes animals’ rights and responsible pet ownership during the Animal Welfare Week celebration.

 

The Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO 10) through its Regulatory Division, staged the celebration of the Animal Welfare Week on October 2, at El Garaje, DA-RFO 10 Compound, in the city of Cagayan de Oro.

Said observance is in pursuant to Proclamation No. 715, under RA 8485 (Animal Welfare Act) as amended by RA 10631, declaring the first week of October of each year as “Animal Welfare Week”.

Bearing this year’s theme: “No Animals Left Behind; Their Lives Matter Too,” the week aims to educate the masses, advocating animals’ rights and promoting the humane treatment of all kinds of animals.

As part of the celebration, the DA-RFO 10 conducted an Information and Education Campaign on the Prevention and Control of Rabies and an Animal Welfare Forum.

In his message, Regulatory Division chief Eduardo N. Pit, PhD, emphasized that celebrating Animal Welfare Week is important for raising awareness on animal rights, responsible pet ownership, and the prevention of animal cruelty, ultimately fostering a more compassionate society.

DA-10 Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations Cora A. Dumayaca also stressed the importance of ensuring safety, security, and emotional support for all animals. “We must be aware of the care we need to provide them [animals], not just for us humans,” she said.

Highlighting the activity, Veterinarian II of the Regulatory Division, Dianara Celeste O. Ua-o, DVM, discussed the Animal Welfare Act of 1998, emphasizing the responsibilities of pet owners, animal handlers, and establishments in ensuring that animals are treated with kindness and protected from neglect, cruelty, and exploitation.

For her part, Regional Rabies Coordinator and Veterinarian III of DA-10’s Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Oryza Krysty D. Baylo, DVM, centered her talk on rabies, stating that educating the public about the disease is crucial for both people and animals, as it promotes early prevention through vaccination, encourages prompt treatment after exposure, and reduces the risk of transmission.

In closing, Veterinarian Keeno Ian A. Moralde, DVM, from a non-profit organization, tackled on responsible pet ownership, underscoring the importance of neutering. He emphasized that neutering dogs and cats helps control the pet population, reduces the risk of certain cancers and behavioral issues, and promotes a longer, healthier life for animals.

Present during the event were key stakeholders, provincial and city vet personnel, and select DA-10 staff.

Following the conduct of the event on October 2, pet owners who registered for Dog and Cat Sterilization (Spay & Neuter) will return tomorrow as part of the weeklong celebration.# (EJLG)