The University of the Philippines Visayas Ugnayan ng Pahinungod/Oblation Corps (UPV UP/OC), in partnership with Project PAWradise, invited experts to talk about various topics on animal welfare at the CATropang IDOlo 2 forum held at the CFOS AV Hall on April 30.
The topics discussed included the Animal Welfare Act and the proper handling of stray dogs and cats; first aid for animal bites; and responsible pet ownership. These were discussed by Dr. Eliezer Tampo, Petfurry Ville Vet Center owner; Dr. Sharlene Tayag, a veterinarian from the Bantayan Veterinary Clinic; and solo rescuer Ms. Erika Paula Yturralde-Salmorin, respectively.
Tampo talked about the salient sections of the Animal Welfare Act, while Tayag discussed clinical signs, misconceptions, first-aid, and prevention of rabies and tetanus. Yturralde-Salmorin, on the other hand, talked about how she initially rescued and adopted stray cats and dogs, which started during the COVID-19 pandemic period until the present.
The University’s pet owners, animal welfare advocates, and concerned personnel attended the said hybrid forum. They were given time to ask for more details of the topics after every presentation.
For his part, UP/OC OIC Director Prof. Jerry Ian Leonida said their office is “doing this activity because we also acknowledge that our campus animals are part of the UPV community.”
He said there should be a change in mindset on how cats and dogs are seen as members of the community who are often neglected. Leonida said cats and dogs should be seen as beneficial members of the community because they act as emotional support, help get rid of pests (rats), and serve as company.
