The municipal government of La Castellana in Negros Occidental province has created the Mt. Kanlaon Task Force Pet Rescue to feed pet animals situated within the six-kilometer radius extended danger zone of Mt. Kanlaon.

Municipal information officer Remuel Seladan Lajo said that yesterday, they received excess food and dog food for those who wanted to help feed the affected animals.

“Please coordinate with us at the Mayor’s Office. This will help in feeding pets left in the barangays within the four to six-kilometer extended danger zone,” he added.

So far, 54 dogs have been brought by their owners to the evacuation center in La Castellana National High School-Junior High School building.

A headcount of pet animals still staying in several communities of Barangays Cabagnaan and Biak na Bato is ongoing, Lajo said.

The animals left in these areas are being fed with food and water while their rescue and evacuation are being arranged.

Lajo said the municipal government has been receiving excess food from town residents and dog food donations from groups in the cities of Bacolod and Iloilo.

The Provincial Veterinary Office has also been assisting the municipal government with the needs of affected animals.

Animal welfare group Bacolod Animal Chance and Hope Project has also partnered with Mt. Kanlaon Volcano Task Force Pet Rescue to facilitate donations for the pet animals in La Castellana.

They continue to receive excess food, dog or cat food, rice and vegetables, as well as buckets, basins or any container that can hold food for the dogs.

“Lots of animals need our help, and your donations will go a long way in feeding the pets left behind,” the group said in a Facebook post. (PNA)