AN ANIMAL welfare group in the Summer Capital is seeking the help of the City Council to craft legislative measures in a bid to regulate dog owners from engaging their pet as means of livelihood.
The Baguio Animal Welfare (BAW), acting on a numerous complains about a St. Bernard being maltreated by handlers went viral on social media has urged authorities to look at the welfare of dogs in the city in relation to the Animal Welfare Act.
Animal Welfare Advocate Norman Marquez said it is high time the city put into place a law to protect animals used for income generating activities and tourism.
Marquez said the BAW is closely working with the city government for the establishment of guidelines on the working conditions, and hours, handler training, education, health care, and operator-handler organizations federation to police their own rank in the employments of pets engaged in income-generating operations.
“Siguro we may have to evaluate the permits and training for dog handlers which should be properly handled and at the same time they should ask clearance from CEPMO so they can properly conduct business,” added Marquez.
With the alleged maltreatment brought to public attention, BAW, in a statement has indefinitely suspend the employment of the dog "Bruno" in photo ops pending further consultations with the proper government agencies and verification of the permit or license to operate the business, which should require certificate of training.
The St. Bernard however remains in the custody of the group handling the dog and be checked by veterinarians as several wounds.