Doggy Dart

Animal welfare advocates were enraged upon hearing the news about "Tiktok," the dog who was stabbed multiple times with arrows in Murcia, Negros Oriental. The dog's owner was shocked to see their precious family member return home with dart arrows lodged in his body. Tiktok was immediately taken to a veterinarian and is now under care. However, for the owner and those who care about domesticated animals, the journey has just begun to find the perpetrator. Kind individuals have pooled together over P300,000 as a reward to identify whoever used the dog as a dartboard.

Initial investigations revealed that children may have made the makeshift darts using nails and feathers; however, this has yet to be determined. Various groups are also keen on pressing charges against whoever is proven responsible for harming the dog. While some may see this as excessive, it is important to remember that animals have rights, especially those we have raised to be our companions. They have feelings as well.

It is only right to demand accountability from whoever stabbed Tiktok. Likewise, we should hold those who continue to abuse animals responsible for their actions. In the past, there have been reports of mass poisonings, tying a cat to a tricycle for fun, and keeping animals in tiny cages. These acts of cruelty are actually punishable by law and could land perpetrators in jail. Like us, animals also get hurt. They live in the same ecosystem as we do. In many homes, they are regarded as best friends and lifelong companions. Nothing can ever replace a dog's unwavering affection.

In other areas, individuals posing as adopters of rescued cats and dogs actually use these poor creatures as food for reptiles, such as snakes. There was even a documented video showing a snake devouring a kitten as the little one cried for its life. Zoology teaches us about predator-prey relationships, but feeding domesticated animals to predators is another issue entirely. There are ethical considerations that must be taken into account. We should know when it is right and wrong.

Tiktok represents the countless animals in the country who continue to suffer abuse in various forms. Many similar cases go unheard or are simply forgotten. I hope this will not be one of them. We prove our humanity when we relate well to these furry creatures. After all, we share the same Earth with them. It is only right to coexist with them peacefully. I sincerely hope that Tiktok recovers from his deep wounds and the trauma he has endured. In the meantime, this incident should serve as a wake-up call not only for animal advocates but also for government agencies to step up in ensuring the welfare of our furry friends. Local government units should appoint veterinarians within their executive offices to oversee the well-being of dogs, cats, and other backyard animals. If we fail to maintain a holistic relationship with animals, we are missing something essential.