The Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries invites you to register your furry friend!
The Cebu City Council has passed City Ordinance No. 2526 mandating the creation of an Animal Welfare council.
The plight of stray animals is often overlooked: starvation, disease and abuse, posing truly high risks for them and for the community. To address this issue, a need for concerted collaboration between national and local government bodies. The Republic Act No. 8485 also known as the Animal Welfare Act of 1998, as amended by RA 10631, which prohibits any form of animal cruelty, including neglect, abuse and inhumane treatment.
Where it all began
Cebu City Council passed City Ordinance 2526 in October 2023, establishing the Animal Welfare Department. The council is responsible for developing policies on animal welfare and stray management, recommending budget allocations for animal care programs, promoting adoption, and monitoring and responding to instances of animal cruelty and neglect.
What the Ordinance Requires
All pet owners in Cebu City must register their pets annually and this includes both private and government employees. The ordinance supports the Animal Welfare Act (Ra 8485) and the Rabies Act (RA 9482), reinforcing national laws at the local level.
What Registration Includes
The annual registration fee is Php 200 per pet and this covers: Anti rabies vaccination, Deworming, Free spaying or neutering (when available). Registered pets also receive an official ID card to track their vaccination and health status.
Based on the latest data gathered on June 24, the city had successfully registered 201 pets during the campaign. Veterinary services reached 189 vaccinated animals and 36 spayed or neutered pets.
Where to Register
Services are available at Cebu City Hall, in barangays like Pamutan and Ermita, and even through home or office visits by the city’s veterinary team.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to register your pet can result in a Php 2,000 fine per pet.
The endeavor to care for our animal pets demonstrates the need of addressing the problem and understanding that they, too, require care. This helps to limit the stray population, prevents the spread of rabies, and ensures that the pets are healthy and accounted for.
