Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte on Thursday, Nov. 4, led the inauguration of the QC Animal Care and Adoption Center in Brgy. Payatas, for impounded cats and dogs.
“We will be transforming our existing City Pound into a center that will promote animal adoption. The city believes that every animal deserves a loving and caring family since dogs and cats are known to be good companion animals," Belmonte said.
The program aims to rehabilitate, train, and put the rescued animals up for adoption instead of euthanasia or mercy killing.
It is initiated by the Quezon City Veterinary Department(QCVD) along with different animal welfare groups, in accordance with Republic Act 8454, the Animal Welfare Act of 1998.
The center provides temporary shelter for up to 60 cats and dogs. It also features a surgery room for pets that need medical attention and separate cages for sick animals to prevent infections.
Aside from the adoption center, pet-friendly spaces will also be created in malls, restaurants, coffee, and other public facilities.
Meanwhile, Dr. Ana Marie Cabel, city veterinarian, said that rescued pets that are not claimed by owners for at least three days will also be put up for adoption.
Adoption policies will be crafted by the City Council.