Iloilo City Conducts Major Spay and Neuter Event for Stray Animals
In a significant effort to address stray animal populations, Iloilo City recently hosted a large-scale spaying and neutering event that benefited approximately 200 dogs and cats. The activity took place at the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) Auditorium, marking a one-time-big-time initiative to promote responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
Collaborative Partnership Drives Success
The event was made possible through a robust partnership involving multiple organizations. The Iloilo City Government, operating through the Office of the City Veterinarian, joined forces with the Philippine Veterinary Medical Association (PVMA) West Visayas Chapter, Vets Love Nature, and the University of the Philippines in Visayas Ugnayan ng Pahinungod/Oblation Corps. Additionally, ten local animal welfare groups played a crucial role by rescuing and gathering stray animals for the procedures, ensuring a wide reach and effective execution.
Integration with Existing Programs
This mass spay-neuter effort aligns seamlessly with Iloilo City's PAWtect program, which focuses on protecting and caring for animals. Furthermore, it forms an integral part of a recently signed Memorandum of Agreement between Iloilo City and UP Visayas. This agreement aims to strengthen the Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) program, a humane method for managing stray animal populations by trapping, sterilizing, vaccinating, and returning animals to their habitats.
Impact on Animal Welfare and Community
The inclusion of rescues from UP Visayas highlights the educational and community-oriented aspects of this initiative. By involving university resources and student volunteers, the event not only provided essential veterinary services but also raised awareness about animal welfare issues. Such collaborative efforts are vital for reducing the number of homeless animals, preventing overpopulation, and improving public health and safety in urban areas like Iloilo City.
Overall, this event demonstrates a proactive approach to animal management, showcasing how government agencies, professional associations, and community groups can work together to achieve meaningful outcomes for both animals and residents.
