By Gabriela Baron
Animal welfare group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) asked government officials to exempt veterinarians and animal rescuers in travel restrictions and checkpoints during the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine.
(FILE PHOTO/PETA ASIA/MANILA BULLETIN)
"PETA receives calls about dying and sick animals all the time, but right now, its rescue team is unable to go to their aid," read the statement released last Monday, March 23.
PETA added that several veterinarians cannot report to their clinics, resulting in the death of some animals.
The animal welfare group said veterinarian and animal rescuers should be considered "essential workers" and be granted access to move freely nationwide to continue helping animals in need. "Such persons are involved in lifesaving efforts and their help is desperately needed by animals such as dogs and cats, especially during this national health emergency," said Jason Baker, PETA Senior Vice President of International Campaigns.
Baker added that not allowing veterinarians and animal rescuers to provide animal assistance could lead members of the public to take matters into their own hands without professional help, which could be disastrous for humans, animals, and the community.