To further efforts in promoting animal welfare and public health, the Victorias local government, through the City Veterinary Office (CVO), conducted a barangay-based kapon (spaying/neutering) and dog catching activity as part of its animal birth control (ABC) program in Barangay XII, Aug. 5.
Held in collaboration with the Provincial Veterinary Office, the operation aimed to control the population of stray animals, particularly dogs and cats, to prevent the spread of rabies and other zoonotic diseases, and to promote responsible pet ownership.
A total of 35 pets were served during the activity, which included eight canine spays, nine canine neuters, seven feline spays, and 11 feline neuters. The event drew the participation of 24 pet owners in the barangay, the city said Aug. 7.
The activity was spearheaded by CVO officer-in-charge, Dr. Ma. Anicka Villegas, together with CVO personnel, with the support of Dr. Shinly Gemoya-Villanueva, provincial rabies prevention and control coordinator.
Also present were dog catchers from the provincial and city veterinary offices, volunteer students from Aklan State University, and Victorias City paraveterinary workers.
Gemoya-Villanueva emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration between local government units and community members in addressing the root causes of stray animal overpopulation.
She also highlighted the benefits of vaccination and spay/neuter procedures in creating a safer and healthier community environment.
The Victorias City Dog Pound Operation, under the ABC program, plays a vital role in removing unvaccinated and uncontrolled animals from public areas to curb disease transmission and prevent dog attacks.
The initiative also serves as an educational platform to raise awareness on proper pet care and the importance of responsible pet ownership.
The Victorias City government remains committed to ensuring public safety and animal welfare through regular veterinary outreach programs and barangay-based interventions. | VCIO photos
