300 pets to join Animal Day at UP

Dr. Alice Utlang, chief of the Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries-Cebu City, is expecting nearly 300 animals to participate in the Animal Day celebration this coming Sunday at the University of the Philippines-Cebu College campus in barangay Lahug.

This would be the very first time that the department will be including other pets, aside from dogs, on an annual Walk with Your Pet project.

Among the highlights of the Animal Day celebration would be the free horseback riding scheduled at 9 a.m.

"Bisan unsa'ng klase sa animals welcome kaayo para makasalmot sa atong Walk with Your Pet project," Utlang said. The walk will start at 5 a.m. on Sunday.

Joining the Animal Day celebration are the Philippine Veterinary Medical Association-Central Visayas chapter, Southwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine, Cebu Goat Raisers Association, Cebu Avian Society, Cebu Equine Breeders Association and ABS-CBN Barangay Kapamilya Patrol.

Utlang said that after the animal walk, a priest is scheduled to bless the pets along with their owners.

Officials of the Cebu Veterinary Practitioners will also hold a free veterinary clinic on periodontal disease, heartworm, and skin diseases for dogs as well as laboratory tests.

Cebu Equine Breeders Association will conduct a horse show and free horseback riding, while the Cebu Goat Raisers Association will also showcase a goat show.

As for dogs, there will be a dog feeding contest, dress-up contest, puppy racing and dog talent show.

Prior to the Sunday activities, there will be a free clinic for anti-rabies vaccination, distribution of vitamins, deworming, castration and consultation at 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 28. - Ramil V. Ayuman