ANGELES City’s Dog Pound and Animal Shelter (ACDPAS) is now an accredited animal center affiliated with the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI).

The BAI issuance of certificate of accreditation will boost the city government’s programs and services by putting a premium on the lives and welfare of animals, Mayor Carmelo Lazatin Jr. said.

A report stated that ACDPAS is the only no-kill animal pound in Pampanga and the second in Central Luzon operating with BAI certification.

“With this, we (city government) will now be in charge of the strict monitoring of backyard pet breeders and their accreditation; the assurance of adequate care and shelter for the animals; and the avoidance of abuse, maltreatment, cruelty and exploitation of animals by humans,” he added.

Lazatin’s chief adviser IC Calaguas said all animals will now receive appropriate standards of accommodation, feeding and general care, the prevention and treatment of disease, and the assurance of freedom from fear, distress, harassment and unnecessary discomfort and pain, and allowing animals to express normal behavior.

“This is what the law requires and what the city ensures. We value animals a lot, especially the stray pets that we rescue, take care of and help find fur-ever homes,” Calaguas noted.

The city government is also encouraging residents to adopt instead of shopping for pets and give rescued animals a “fur-ever” family.

Meanwhile, City Veterinary Officer in Charge Dr. Christian Xyric Arcilla said their office will conduct continuous monitoring activities to ensure that all animals are properly handled and taken care of.

He announced that the city will partner with different agencies in the conduct of animal welfare training to the city’s 33 barangay (villages).

Aside from the establishment of an animal pound, Angeles City is also offering free spaying and neutering to cats and dogs, giving free checkups and medicines, and conducting house-tohouse anti-rabies vaccination.