15 dogs up for adoption in Makati

The Makati City Veterinary Office (MCVO) has put up for adoption 15 unclaimed dogs in the city’s impounding center as part of the city government’s "Adopt-a-Pet Program."

In a report submitted to Mayor Jejomar Binay, MCVO veterinarian Dr. Ma. Vivien Manalastas said the adoption was decided after the owners of the dogs failed to claim their pets within the seven-day grace period.

Under City Ordinance 2004-AO10 or the Animal Regulation and Control Code, unclaimed dogs can be disposed of through adoption after seven days under the custody of the city government.

Manalastas said the project aims to help decongest the city pound which can only accommodate up to 120 dogs.

"The MCVO’s continuous campaign against stray animals often brings the number of captured dogs beyond the maximum capacity of our impounding cell. Instead of resorting to less humane options, such as mercy killing, to solve the problem, we instead offer them to pet-loving persons who are responsible enough to keep the dogs within their homes or backyards," he said.

The pet adoption is open to the public from Mondays to Fridays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the ground floor of the Department of Public Safety building in Malugay Street, Barangay San Antonio, Makati City.

Those who are interested in adopting a pet need to pass the MCVO’s interview on responsible pet ownership and are required to submit their pets for castration. Makati residents are required to register their adopted dog as prescribed by the ordinance. — Rhodina Villanueva