The Bureau of Animal Industry encourages the public to practice responsible pet ownership. (DOH Central Luzon)
ABUCAY, Bataan (PIA) — The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) is encouraging the public to practice responsible pet ownership.
BAI Animal Welfare Unit veterinarian Marie Shella Ordinario emphasized that proper care of pets is not only a moral duty but also a legal responsibility under Republic Act No. 8485, or the Animal Welfare Act (as amended by RA 10631), and Republic Act No. 9482, or the Anti-Rabies Act.
“Responsible pet ownership refers to the proper care of pets, including veterinary care, vaccinations, deworming, feeding, shelter, and the provision of activities that promote their health and development,” Ordinario said.
She emphasized that under the Animal Welfare Act, pet owners are required to provide their pets with adequate care and sustenance.
“The purpose of this law is to protect and promote the welfare of all terrestrial, marine, and aquatic animals in the Philippines,” she added.
Meanwhile, Ordinario noted that under the Anti-Rabies Act, pet owners are also held accountable for their pets’ actions and well-being.
She explained that dog owners are mandated to ensure regular vaccination of their pets against rabies, maintain an updated vaccination record, and register their dogs with the appropriate authorities.
In addition, pet owners must ensure that their dogs are always kept under control, especially in public places. They are also expected to provide proper grooming, sufficient food, and a clean and safe shelter for their pets.
In cases of dog bites, owners are required to report the incident to authorities within 24 hours and have the dog placed under observation by a licensed veterinarian.
Furthermore, they are obligated to assist the bite victim immediately and shoulder all medical and related expenses resulting from the incident.
Ordinario also underscored the five basic freedoms of animals under the law, which include freedom from hunger and thirst, freedom from discomfort, freedom from pain, injury, and disease, freedom from fear and distress, and freedom to express normal behavior.
She also discussed common rabies myths and facts, highlighting the importance of raising public awareness and correcting misinformation surrounding animal care and disease prevention.
The BAI reminds the public that responsible pet ownership is essential to safeguarding community health and animal welfare. (MJSC/RGP, PIA Region 3-Zambales)
