Lazatin orders to rescue dogs from illegal breeders

Posted on February 28, 2020 by Admin

ANGELES CITY – The Angeles City Government has rescued dogs from alleged illegal breeders who sell them in streets during an inspection here on Friday morning, February 28.

The said breeders were already warned three times by the City Veterinary Office, according to Executive Asst. IV Reina Manuel, since Mayor Carmelo 'Pogi' Lazatin Jr. released a Mission Order to inspect puppy breeders and sellers along the vicinity of Apo Church, Jenra Mall, Ospital Ning Angeles, and Fil-Am Friendship bridge.

In line with this, upon the instruction of Mayor Lazatin, she immediately coordinated with the City Veterinary Office to strictly monitor if there are still illegal backyard dog breeders and puppy mills operating in the City.

She said the health and welfare of these crossed breed dogs are being compromised by these suspected breeders.

"We will not tolerate that these dogs are kept in unsanitary conditions where many are locked in cages around the clock in a loud and stressful environment," she said.

Manuel further said there were no proper documents such as indication of proper vetting or veterinary care or records, and evidence which proved that authorized practice of veterinary medicine was taking place on site.

To date, 15 puppies are in the custody of the Angeles City Hall Dog Pound and various tests on these rescued dogs will be conducted.

The Mayor wants to assure they will receive proper care and welfare checks, especially in terms of health, shelter and food.

He then mentioned he eyes to improve the said dog pound, which is one of his priority programs for 2020, as well as the zero stray dog campaign in 2022.

Furthermore, according to Dr. Arcilla, city veterinary officer, should there be any complaints of animal cruelty and illegal dog or cat breeders operating in the City, immediate action will be taken.

Meanwhile, if the said puppies will be open for adoption, Manuel added, she will ask the City Information Office (CIO) Facebook page to announce it, since she also encourages citizens to adopt and not shop. Further requirements will be given such as application form, valid IDs, and once a week monitoring to ensure their health and welfare.

It can be recalled that last August 2019, Manuel, a dog lover herself, adopted one of the rescue dogs in the city's dog pound.

Moreover, members of the City Veterinary Office are scheduled to visit every barangay in the City to conduct free anti-rabies vaccine to dogs and cats.

-Leah Isidro De Fiesta