By Jerome S. Galunan, Jr.

The Bacolod City Sangguniang Panlungsod last week passed the Dog and Cat Welfare Ordinance of Bacolod City, which is aimed at controlling the stray animal population, along with requiring vaccinations for pets.

The ordinance, authored by City Councilor Wilson Gamboa, Jr., seeks to promote city residents’ rights to health and safeguard the public from possible animal hazards.

Aside from controlling the number of stray animals, the ordinance requires pet owners to have their animals vaccinated. Once immunized, animals will be issued a tag which it must always wear when in public.

Persons found in violation of the ordinance will be charged P1,000 on their first offense, with penalties increasing for subsequent infractions.

The policy will be enforced and implemented by the City Health Office, City Veterinary Office, and City Legal Office and/or authorized barangay personnel./JSG, WDJ