THE Davao City Veterinarian's Office (CVO) is urging Dabawenyos to adopt impounded cats and dogs as euthanasia rates continue to climb.
Dr. Gay Z. Pallar, acting assistant department head of the CVO, reported that from January to December 2024, the office impounded 6,143 cats and dogs. Of these, only 500 were reclaimed, and about 20 were adopted. The rest were euthanized due to limited space at the pound.
“Actually ang euthanasia natu twice a week kay kung nag due na ang first na impound kay three days naman kay need na siya euthanasia (Euthanasia is conducted twice a week because once an animal’s three-day holding period expires, it has to be euthanized),” Pallar said during the ISpeak media forum on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the CHO Building.
The CVO's facility has 12 cages, each holding up to 25 dogs. On average, the office impounds up to 25 dogs daily. Any unclaimed animal after three days is put down due to capacity constraints.
To reduce euthanasia rates, the office actively promotes pet adoption through the Davao City Adopt-A-Cat/Dog Ordinance. Under this program, 10 cats and dogs were rehabilitated, vaccinated against rabies, and given a five-in-one vaccination before being made available for adoption.
Prospective adopters must undergo an evaluation to properly care for a pet. Once approved, they are allowed to adopt, with the CVO monitoring both the adopter and pet for six months. This is to prevent cases of animal consumption—an issue the office has encountered twice with adopters using dogs for meat.
Since the program’s launch late last year, the CVO has successfully rehomed about 20 cats and dogs, mostly through rescue groups. The rehabilitation center is located in Malagos, alongside the impounding facility. Interested adopters must submit a letter of intent for evaluation before being matched with a suitable pet.
However, Pallar acknowledged that promoting adoption over purchasing pets remains a challenge, as many people prefer specific breeds. Despite this, she remains hopeful, noting that some individuals are open to adopting regardless of breed.
To manage the stray animal population, the CVO continues its free neutering and castration services while intensifying impounding efforts and encouraging pet adoption. RGP