People brought their animal companions to University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman for the UPaw Fair, held at Kamia Residence Hall’s The Third Space. Here’s what happened.
SPOTLIGHT: EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS
In the morning, experts shared practical advice on animal welfare in a roundtable discussion titled “You’ve Got a Friend.” UP Prof. Khrysta Rara expounded on the UP Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Program. Meanwhile, Kyle Gabriel Ranis related his experiences as an ESA handler.
Dr. Rey del Napoles discussed the importance of neutering and spaying, and Eleanor Agulto from CARA Welfare Philippines gave tips on dealing with campus Cats. Lastly, Animal Kingdom Foundation’s (AKF) Senior Lead Volunteer Christian Bondoc talked about responsible rescuing and the AKF Ambassa-Dogs.
PAW PARADE AT THE UNI
Later that day, Dogs of all shapes and sizes trekked around the UP campus in a colorful Dog parade led by UP’s ESAs.
Participants of the parade, both Dogs and humans, donned different costumes from simple scarves to elaborate dresses. Many spectators took the chance to witness the parade within the campus.
Prizes were given to outstanding furbabies who won awards for Most Original Costume, Most Magical Costume, Most Lovable Pet, Cat of the Year, and so on.
UPaw Fair 2024 was presented by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, Office of Student Housing, Friends of Campus Animals (FOCA) UP, and Utak at Pusa, in partnership with AKF, CARA Welfare Philippines., Dunsk Kuhner, Top Breed, ABC Pets, Willow Hypoallergenic Dog Food, and this publication (Animal Scene).
