The Marikina City local government unit (LGU) has partnered with the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) for the implementation of the “Kapon for All Pets” program.
The “Kapon for All Pets Program” is an initiative of PAWS, which seeks cooperation with multiple sectors in order to provide free and accessible spay-neuter services for pets, particularly on a monthly basis.
The program aims to link PAWS with various local governments and private veterinary clinics.
Marikina City Councilor Romina Kate De Guzman and Councilor Joy G. San Juan visited the PAWS Animal Rehabilitation Center (PARC) in Quezon City on Feb. 22 as representatives of the local government.
In support of the initiative, De Guzman said that she will propose an ordinance that will give tax and non-tax incentives to private veterinary clinics in the city to promote low-cost spay-neuter programs.
According to PAWS, spaying or neutering offers numerous health benefits to animals such as lowering the risk of cancer, and reducing drastic behavioural changes that may expose the animals to harm.
More importantly, PAWS stressed that spaying or neutering programs need to be institutionalized to help alleviate pet homelessness and overpopulation of stray animals.
They also decrease bite incidences, reduce the cases of contractible diseases in animals, as well as lower the rate of euthanasia.
PAWS offers a cheaper range of spay or neuter services depending on the animals’ size, weight, and medical condition.
On Feb. 22 to 23, PAWS conducted a free spay-neuter drive in celebration of World Spay Day on Feb. 22.