Pet care group takes spay, neuter drive to Mandaluyong
MANILA, Philippines — Emily, 40, began her Sunday morning by standing in line with her 11-year-old daughter and their two loyal companions Steven John and Maximo at the Andres Bonifacio Integrated School in Mandaluyong City.
Their two “aspin” dogs patiently waited for their turn during the free spay and neuter service offered by Biyaya Animal Care (BAC) to residents in partnership with the city government.
Emily, who requested not to be identified by her full name, said the two dogs had been a constant source of affection and comfort to her family since she found the puppies wounded and limping three years ago, the victims of a hit-and-run.
“We thought of selling or [having them adopted] because we couldn’t take care of them properly, but we couldn’t because they’re already family,” she said, adding that she was thankful for the chance to have her dogs neutered.
Report animal cruelty
According to BAC president Rina Ortiz, her group seeks “to make a positive change” in animal welfare in the country by humanely controlling the stray animal population through neutering, among other goals.
Besides the spay and neuter procedures, Sunday’s activity included a responsible pet ownership seminar, grooming services, and distribution of free food and vitamins for pets. Mandaluyong police chief Col. Mary Grace Madayag reminded city residents that any form of animal cruelty was prohibited.
“If someone hits your pet, even if you weren’t hit, you are still hurt because you have an emotional connection. You can report these incidents to us,” she said.
Ortiz agreed: “If you learn how to respect animals, you also learn how to respect yourself.”
