Use of microchip for pets gets support

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Veterinary Medicine & Fisheries (DVMF) and other animal rescue organizations have manifested their support on the proposed ordinance mandating the use of safe animal microchip in the registration of pets to elevate responsible pet ownership.

During the City Council regular session last Wednesday, the proposed ordinance of Councilor Rey Gealon also underwent public hearing.

The ordinance is entitled, “An ordinance mandating the use of safe animal microchip in the registration of pets in the territorial jurisdiction of Cebu City and appropriating funds thereof”.

According to Gealon, this proposed ordinance seeks to require the safe microchip for all pets to ensure that pets and companion animals are registered by using an animal microchip that would contain their basic identification.

He said this is in consonance with the Animal Welfare Ordinance of Cebu City.

Citing the position paper of DVMF, Gealon echoed that they are in “total” support for the ordinance. They, however, pointed out the registration fee which is pegged at P50 while the attached and projected procurement of the said microchip is at P200.

In line with this, Gealon said that the registration fee could be higher.

Island Rescue Organization president Analyn Aizpuru manifested their support to the ordinance. She noted that the pegged registration of P50 is “very affordable”.

She, however, added that the spay and neuter cost could be challenging to the mass especially with the indigents.

“I think that’s the struggle here of the ordinance,” said Aizpuru.

During the discussion, ex-officio Councilor Franklyn Ong, Liga ng mga Barangay (LNB)-Cebu City president, expressed that there has been a free spay and neuter services in the barangay.

According to Aizpuru, the spay and neuter must be also intensified on its implementation among the barangays in order for the indigents to avail of.

Ong also suggested focusing on the registration and monitoring of the dog population in the city especially those in the barangay that may not be keenly monitored most of the time in which Aizpuru has duly noted.

Penelope Montalban, representative of Cats and Dogs Matter Organization, also manifested their support for the proposed ordinance adding that it is a very “laudable one.”

According to her, it is timely considering that there were several “stray animals” that were actually registered but were not registered.

“But because the owners are not, shall we say, responsible enough or not aware of the responsibilities, the microchipping will definitely be a big help in leveling them up in being a responsible pet owner,” said Montalban.

She added they are hopeful that the said ordinance will be pushed through adding that it contributes to a larger landscape of animal welfare like animal abuse, among others. (CEBU NEWS)