hedgehog logo

The Problem

    Unethical breeding practices:

  • Puppy mills: These mass breeding facilities prioritize profit over animal welfare, often leading to overcrowded, unsanitary conditions and health problems in dogs.
  • Inbreeding: Unethical breeders may prioritize specific physical traits without considering potential health issues from excessive inbreeding.
  • Lack of transparency: Consumers may struggle to verify the source and breeding practices behind puppies they encounter.

    Overpopulation and homelessness:

  • Unplanned breeding: Accidental litters and irresponsible breeding contribute to dog overpopulation, leading to overcrowded shelters and euthanasia.
  • Abandonment: Owners may surrender dogs due to various reasons, including financial constraints, behavioral issues, or changing life circumstances.
  • Limited adoption rates: While adoption is encouraged, shelters sometimes struggle to find suitable homes for all dogs in their care.

Did You Know?

  • Millions


    Estimates suggest the stray dog population in the Philippines could be in the millions.

  • 500,000


    A 2015 report by the World Animal Protection organization estimated that there were over 500,000 stray dogs in Metro Manila alone.

  • 70%


    Some animal welfare organizations estimate that around 70% of the dog population in the Philippines might be homeless.

The Solution

Unethical Breeding

  • Stricter Regulations and Enforcement: Our LGU can implement stricter regulations for breeding facilities, including inspections and licensing requirements. This can help crack down on puppy mills and ensure better breeding practices.

  • Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about the dangers of puppy mills and the importance of adopting from shelters can discourage people from buying from unethical breeders.

Overpopulation

  • Spaying/Neutering Programs: Making spaying and neutering affordable and accessible is crucial. This can involve subsidies for low-income pet owners, collaboration with veterinary schools and organizations to offer low-cost procedures, and mobile spaying/neutering clinics in communities.

  • Promoting Responsible Pet Ownership: Educational campaigns can raise awareness about the commitment involved in pet ownership. This includes spaying/neutering, proper training, socialization, and lifelong care.

Homelessness

  • Supporting Animal Shelters: Shelters play a vital role in rescuing strays, providing medical care, and finding them forever homes. Donating or volunteering at shelters can significantly aid their efforts.

  • Adoption Drives: Organize adoption drives to encourage people to adopt from shelters instead of buying from breeders. This can involve showcasing adoptable dogs at community events and partnering with media outlets to publicize these drives.

Additional Solutions

  • Community Outreach Programs: Collaborate with local communities to educate residents about responsible pet ownership, and animal welfare issues.

  • Encouraging Tethering Laws: While tethering can be a controversial topic, properly enforced tethering laws can prevent escape and uncontrolled breeding of stray dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the problem with dogs in the Philippines?

A: There's a heartbreaking issue of dog homelessness. Millions of stray dogs roam the streets, facing hunger, illness, and danger. This is caused by unethical breeding practices, lack of spaying/neutering, and pet abandonment.

Q: How does this affect me?

A: Stray dog overpopulation can lead to public health risks like rabies. It can also cause safety concerns with dog bites, especially for children. But most importantly, it's an animal welfare issue. These dogs deserve a safe and loving home.

Q: What can I do to help?

A: There are many ways to make a difference!

  • Adopt, Don't Shop: Consider adopting a loving dog from a shelter instead of buying from a breeder.
  • Spay/Neuter Your Pet: Spaying and neutering your pet is the single most effective way to prevent unwanted litters and reduce the homeless dog population.
  • Donate or Volunteer: Animal shelters rely on donations and volunteers to care for rescued dogs. Every little bit helps!
  • Spread Awareness: Talk to friends and family about responsible pet ownership and the importance of spaying/neutering. Share information about animal shelters and adoption drives on social media.

Q: Are there organizations working on this issue?

A: Yes! There are many dedicated animal welfare organizations in the Philippines, such as the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS). They work tirelessly to rescue strays, provide medical care, and find them forever homes.
And of course there's us, Aso Sanctuario.
We play our part to save dogs and inspire lives.

Meet the Team

Francis Isberto
Francis
Marketing
Rachelle Isberto
Rachelle
Finance
Luigi Isberto
Luigi
Tech