By JOREYLENE ROJO & KRISTINA CRUJIDO/DNSC INTERNS
THE CITY Veterinarian’s Office (CVO) urges owners to practice responsible pet ownership following data showing a high number of impounded animals in 2025.
During the iSpeak Media forum on Feb. 5, Dr. Gay Pallar, acting CVO head, said cases of animal impounding remain a concern, observing that some pet owners surrender their pets, particularly dogs, after failing to commit to proper care.
“Actually, dili gyud na sala sa mga iro na maglatagaw sila, sala na sa mga tag-iya na walay pagpakabana (it’s not the fault of the dogs when they stray, it’s the fault of the negligent owners,)” Pallar said.
CVO records show that 6,957 animals were impounded in 2025, but only 1,069 were reclaimed by their respective owners.
She added that the city rehabilitates impounded dogs only when individuals or groups are willing to adopt them. But limited funds prevent the office from fully sheltering and rehabilitating all unclaimed animals.
According to Ordinance No. 1457, the city is mandated to impound stray and unattended animals as part of its rabies prevention efforts. The law continues to be enforced following an increase in rabies cases recorded last year.
The CVO reiterated that pet owners must take responsibility for their animals to help reduce impounding cases and support the city’s public health initiatives.
