In the recent week, an "asong pinoy" or aspin, named Yoda, became the center of a heated controversy. Yoda, an aspin, was denied entry to a restaurant that had advertised itself as pet-friendly. Despite this claim, it appears the restaurant had stringent criteria for the types of dogs allowed. According to Yoda's owner, the establishment provided various reasons for the refusal, none of which were documented in any public notices from the restaurant or local regulations. This incident has sparked outrage among animal welfare advocates.
The situation raises a broader question about the fascination some people have with purebred dogs. While purebreds often appear polished and glamorous, they are, fundamentally, no different from mixed-breed dogs in terms of their species. For me, the aspin is the epitome of affection and loyalty. Although aspins may lack the luxurious coats of large breeds or the cute, compact appearances of toy breeds, they possess a charm and warmth that are just as endearing. My personal experience with an aspin has been profoundly fulfilling. We adopted a stray aspin who had sought refuge at my father’s office. When the management decided to let him go, we chose to take him in and provide him with a loving home.
There are countless dogs out there in need of families. Many of them roam the streets in search of food and shelter, striving to survive day by day. Visiting a local pound reveals numerous dogs waiting for a new beginning with caring humans. The worth of a dog should not be determined by its appearance or the status it might confer. A dog’s true value lies in its role as a loyal companion and a cherished member of the family.
The Yoda incident also serves as a wakeup call for businesses that claim to be pet-friendly but fail to uphold those claims genuinely. These establishments are using "pet-friendly" as a marketing ploy rather than a genuine policy. Dogs, regardless of their breed, shape, or appearance, deserve equal treatment. It is ironic and disheartening that societal standards, often influenced by colonial legacies, extend even to how we treat domesticated animals. This reflects a misguided desire to appear affluent, a trait that serves no real purpose in contemporary society.
Yoda's rising popularity has also ignited discussions about adopting rather than buying pets. There is no need to spend thousands of dollars to acquire a furry friend; many lovable dogs are waiting for a home in shelters. To those who still view Aspins as inferior due to their mixed heritage, it might be time to reassess our views on equality. The practice of valuing purebred dogs over mixed breeds needs to end. We live in an era where inclusivity and equality should be at the forefront of our values. If humans advocate for these principles, it is only fair that animals receive the same respect and consideration. The discourse sparked by Yoda’s experience highlights the need for a shift in societal attitudes.