As Severe Tropical Storm Kristine brought intense rains and flooding across Quezon City, local authorities took action to protect not only residents but also pets. The Quezon City government set up a dedicated pet evacuation center in Barangay Bagong Silangan, providing shelter and veterinary care for animals affected by the storm.
The Quezon City Veterinary Department (QCVD), in collaboration with the city’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (QCDRRMC), helped rescue and transport 32 pets to the facility. This included a mix of dogs, puppies, and cats that were safely housed, where they received essential supplies such as food, vitamins, anti-rabies vaccines, and antibiotics to protect against leptospirosis. This initiative aimed to ensure animal safety, prevent separation from their owners, and mitigate health risks for all evacuees.
Pet Evacuation Center Details and Services
The pet evacuation facility in Barangay Bagong Silangan primarily provided assistance for pets whose owners were also displaced. In addition to food and medical supplies, the center offered supportive care for animals under stress due to the storm. Rex Villanueva, Officer-in-Charge of the QC Animal Care and Adoption Center, stated that all animals in the facility had owners. To ensure comfort and prevent incidents, pets were housed separately from their owners in the center.
“Many evacuees are uncomfortable sharing space with pets, so we needed to set up a dedicated area to avoid conflicts and ensure the safety of all,” Villanueva explained. He emphasized the city’s dedication to animal welfare, which aligns with its commitment to keep both residents and their pets safe during calamities. The QCVD supplied initial food and vitamins, while pet owners took over feeding and caring responsibilities.
Protocol for Stray and Lost Animals
In addition to pets brought by their owners, the QCDRRMC and QCVD rescued stray animals that were stranded by the rising waters. These animals were transferred to the QC Animal Care and Adoption Center, where they received veterinary assistance. Villanueva added that any pets separated from their owners during the storm or rescued by others would be coordinated with local barangay animal control officers to facilitate reunions.
As the effect of Typhoon Kristine continues to affect parts of Quezon City, the pet evacuation center has served as a central point for animal safety and reunification efforts. According to Villanueva, the pet center operates as part of a broader disaster response framework and can establish temporary facilities when emergencies arise, such as during fires.
Emphasis on Adoption and Responsible Pet Ownership
The QC Animal Care and Adoption Center encourages residents to adopt pets and emphasizes the importance of responsible pet ownership. Villanueva highlighted the center’s adoption program, which currently has between 50 to 70 pets available, and invited interested individuals to visit the center’s Facebook page to learn more.
In addition, he advised pet owners to be prepared for emergencies, reminding them to care for only the animals they can adequately support. “During times like this, it’s crucial to only take on the responsibility you’re prepared for. This way, we can minimize suffering and reduce the number of abandoned animals,” Villanueva stressed.
Public Awareness and Preparedness
The Quezon City government continues to raise awareness of the importance of animal safety and preparedness in disaster-prone areas. Through the QCVD and QCDRRMC’s joint efforts, they have established protocols that prioritize both human and animal welfare during typhoons and other natural disasters.