The People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Asia sent a letter addressed to Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and other government officials to allow veterinarians and animal rescue teams to freely move around Luzon, which is under an ‘enhanced community quarantine’ due to the coronavirus pandemic, and rescue or tend to animals in need.
“Hinihiling [ng PETA] na ang mga beterinaryo at animal rescuer ay ituring na ‘essential workers’ o kailangan na manggagawa,” PETA Asia said in a statement Wednesday, March 25.
Due to the restraint in travelling and several checkpoints, PETA cited that they continue to receive calls about dying pets who failed to receive needed treatment because most veterinarians were not able to go to them.
“[Veterinarians and animal rescuers] are involved in lifesaving efforts, and their help is desperately needed by animals such as dogs and cats, especially during this national health emergency,” wrote Jason Baker, PETA Senior Vice President of International Campaigns, in the letter.
“Not allowing these workers to provide animals with vital assistance could lead members of the public to take matters into their own hands without professional help, which could be disastrous for humans, animals, and the community at large,” he added.
If your animal companions needs emergency care, or you saw an animal in need, kindly contact PETA’s emergency hotline at 0999-888-7382.
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