Shortage of Vets Hampers Iloilo Dog Population Control

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Efforts to manage Iloilo’s growing dog population are being hindered by a shortage of veterinarians in local government units (LGUs), according to the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO).

“Unlike other professions, not every municipality has a veterinarian,” PVO head Dr. Darel Tabuada said in an interview on Jan. 6.

Despite the challenge, the province continues to conduct regular spaying and neutering sessions every Friday in different municipalities. To strengthen the program, the PVO has added another veterinarian to its team.

Tabuada noted the program’s success last year, with over 1,000 dogs spayed or neutered. The PVO also advocates for responsible pet ownership to control the dog population effectively.

Stray Dogs and Road Accidents

Stray dogs have contributed to over 200 road accidents in Iloilo in 2024.

On the day of Tabuada’s interview, a motorcycle driven by a pastor collided with a dog in Barangay Pakiad, Oton. The dog died in the accident, while the pastor sustained injuries to his hands, knees, and elbows.

“It is not the animals’ fault but the responsibility of pet owners to ensure their dogs are either leashed or confined within their homes,” Tabuada stressed.

Several LGUs have passed ordinances requiring pet owners to pay for damages caused by their animals.

Tabuada also cited Republic Act 9482, or the Anti-Rabies Act of 2007, which mandates the inclusion of responsible pet ownership in elementary school curriculums. However, this provision has not been fully implemented in all areas.

Mass Vaccination Campaign for 2025

The PVO plans to continue its anti-rabies vaccination campaign from February to April this year. The campaign aims to vaccinate 70% of the province’s dog population, or about 257,523 dogs.

Last year, the province vaccinated over 283,000 dogs, covering 87.37% of the total dog population.

The PVO has allocated PHP 9 million for vaccines and supplies, which have already been procured and stored. Municipalities are also supporting the campaign by hiring barangay vaccinators, whose salaries are covered for three months.

Emphasis on Education and Enforcement

To address challenges in dog population control, Tabuada emphasized the need for more educational campaigns and stricter enforcement of pet-related regulations.

“We need to focus on educating communities about the importance of responsible pet ownership and ensure that existing laws are properly implemented,” he said.

The PVO aims to collaborate further with LGUs to enhance compliance with pet ownership regulations and encourage participation in its spaying, neutering, and vaccination programs.