Bacolod City is taking a major step to address the growing problem of stray dogs by committing PHP10 million to build a new dog shelter in Hacienda Conchita, Barangay Granada. The shelter, which will be funded through a portion of the city's loan from the Development Bank of the Philippines, aims to accommodate up to 1,000 dogs, providing a larger and more sustainable solution for animal welfare in the city.
A Growing Challenge for Bacolod’s Animal Welfare
As Bacolod continues to grow into a more urbanized "super city," the management of stray dogs has become an increasing challenge. Dr. John Michael Cabuguason, assistant city veterinarian, emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue. "With Bacolod's rapid development, we need to tackle the stray dog problem head-on," he said. The new shelter is part of a broader initiative to ensure that the city's infrastructure evolves to meet its growing needs, including the care of animals in distress. The city aims to have the shelter ready by mid-2025, with the project already in its final stages of planning.
Current Facilities Struggling to Keep Up
At the moment, the City Veterinary Office (CVO) operates a dog pound located in Barangay 35, but its capacity is limited to only 150 dogs. With the number of strays growing steadily, the facility has been unable to accommodate all the dogs brought in by authorities. Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez has acknowledged this issue, stating that the existing pound is no longer sufficient to handle the volume of strays. The new shelter will expand the city's capacity to care for rescued dogs, offering them a better environment and a better chance at adoption.
A Long-Term Commitment to Animal Welfare
The planned shelter is not just a temporary fix but a long-term investment in Bacolod's animal welfare. With a target completion date of mid-2025, the new facility will play a crucial role in addressing the city's stray dog population in a humane and sustainable way. This project represents Bacolod’s commitment to improving the lives of animals while also contributing to the overall well-being of the community.
