The Angeles City Government, under the leadership of Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr., recently took a significant step in promoting responsible pet ownership by offering a free neuter and spay service for dogs. The event, held on August 19, 2024, at the Angeles City Dog Pound and Animal Shelter, was spearheaded by the City Veterinary Office. This initiative is part of a broader campaign to ensure that pet owners in Angeles City have access to necessary veterinary services, helping to curb the growing population of stray and unwanted animals in the city.
Mayor Lazatin emphasized that the program is not just a one-time event but an ongoing service provided by the city. Pet owners are encouraged to visit the Angeles City Dog Pound, located within the City Hall Compound, to schedule their pets for free neuter and spay services. By making this service accessible, the city hopes to encourage more residents to take responsibility for the reproductive health of their pets, ultimately leading to a decrease in the number of stray animals.
IC Calaguas, the Mayor’s Chief Adviser, and Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel, both expressed their support for the program. They highlighted that one of the key goals of this initiative is to foster a culture of responsible pet ownership among Angeleños. By offering free sterilization services, the city is making it easier for pet owners to take an essential step in caring for their pets and preventing the spread of diseases, such as rabies, that can be transmitted by unvaccinated and unsterilized animals.
City Veterinary Officer Dr. Christian Xyric Arcilla also weighed in on the importance of the program. He explained that spaying and castration are two of the most effective methods of animal sterilization. These procedures not only help to control the population of unwanted animals but also reduce the risk of health issues such as infections and certain types of cancer in pets. Additionally, sterilization can mitigate behavioral problems related to mating instincts, making pets easier to manage at home.
The free neuter and spay program also serves as a preventive measure against the spread of rabies, a significant public health concern. Dr. Arcilla pointed out that by controlling the animal population and ensuring that pets are properly vaccinated, the city can significantly reduce the risk of rabies transmission to humans. This is particularly important in densely populated urban areas where stray animals can easily come into contact with residents.
This initiative by the Angeles City Government is a testament to the administration’s commitment to public health and animal welfare. By providing free neuter and spay services, the city is not only addressing the immediate issue of overpopulation among pets but is also setting a precedent for other cities to follow. The program is a proactive approach to animal control, focusing on prevention rather than dealing with the consequences of an unchecked animal population.
As the program continues, it is expected that more pet owners will take advantage of the free services offered. This will not only benefit the individual pets but also contribute to a healthier and safer community overall. The Angeles City Government’s dedication to responsible pet ownership is a commendable effort that will likely have long-term positive impacts on the city’s residents and their furry companions.
Photo by: Angeles City Information Office