QC steps up disaster response, includes pet rescue, evacuation

Manila: During calamities, pets, including stray animals, often find themselves at risk. Amid the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, the Quezon City Veterinary Department (QCVD), through the QC Animal Care and Adoption Center, and with the help of the QC Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (QCDRRMC), rescued at least 32 pets and brought them to the city's pet evacuation center in Barangay Bagong Silangan. Of the 32 pets, 10 were adult dogs, 16 were puppies, and six were cats. In an interview on Friday, Rex Villanueva, OIC of the QC Animal Care and Adoption Center, said these pets were provided with food, vitamins, supportive treatments, and antibiotics against leptospirosis. Unvaccinated pets were given anti-rabies vaccination shots. He added that all animals being accommodated at the pet evacuation centers have owners. 'Lahat po sila ay may pet owners. We need to separate them since some evacuees ay hindi gusto ang pets sa areas where they stay, and para maiwasan din ang bite incid ents (They all have pet owners. We need to separate them because some evacuees do not want pets in the areas where they stay, and also to avoid bite incidents),' Villanueva said. '(The) City Veterinary Department is the one providing initial dog and cat food and vitamins, then being a responsible pet owner, mga fur parents na po nila ang nag nagpapakain at naglilinis (Their fur parents are the ones who feed and clean them).' He said this is part of the city's efforts to safeguard the welfare, not only of the people but of the animals as well, during emergencies. Meanwhile, stray animals rescued amid the heavy rains and flooding were turned over to the QC Animal Care and Adoption Center and were given veterinary assistance. Villanueva added that after the storm, pets separated from their owners or rescued by concerned citizens are coordinated with the city's deputized barangay animal control officers. He said the establishment of the pet evacuation center was a collaborative initiative between the QCVD an d the QCDRRMC. Currently, the designated pet evacuation area is in Barangay Bagong Silangan. However, he said, during emergencies, such as fires, additional temporary centers are quickly set up. Adoption and responsible pet ownership While the QC Animal Care and Adoption Center works diligently to help all pets stay with their owners, the center also serves as a shelter for stray animals and abandoned pets. 'As of now, we have 50 to 70 pets available for adoption. Pwede po sila tumingin sa ating (You can check our) Facebook page for other requirements needed,' he said. He noted that center is located along Clemente Street, Lupang Pangako in Barangay Payatas. Meanwhile, Villanueva advised all pet owners to keep their furry friends safe. 'Be responsible pet owner at all times. Alagaan lang po natin ang kaya nating alagaan, ayon sa ating kakayahan, upang hindi po sila mag suffer or maiwan during disasters or calamities (only care for the animals you can support, so they don't suffer or get left behind in disasters or calamities),' he said. Source: Philippines News Agency