Paw Prints
These days, we see the rise of animal-friendly parks and malls in the metro. We see more animal shelters getting support from celebrities and politicians. On the other hand, we see the continuous demand for dog dishes such as the longga-dog and adobong aso in rural provinces. We see un-neutered stray cats and dogs multiplying by the dozens all over the country. We see hungry animals living in rusty cages and terrible living conditions in zoos.
If your heart breaks whenever you see a stray dog eating out of a garbage bin, a sack of kittens being thrown in dumps by ignorant people, or a TV documentary on abused animals, then you have what it takes to help the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS).
The Philippine Animal Welfare Society was founded in 1954 by British educator Muriel Jay, who was then residing in the Philippines. When he returned to England, PAWS became dormant. In 1986, Nita Hontiveros-Lichauco, the current PAWS President, reorganized PAWS with the help of veterinarians, educators, and professionals. More than 20 years later, PAWS has established numerous successful programs and activities for the benefit of animal welfare. We still have a long way to go compared to first-world countries that have strict governing animal laws, but there is hope.
PAWS’ hard work paid off when the Animal Welfare Act of 98 (also known as Republic Act 8485) was signed into law by then Philippine President Fidel V. Ramos on February 11, 1998. PAWS fundraisers are now regularly organized to sustain animal welfare activities. Animal rescues, free veterinary services, and adoption centers have been successfully established. Educational campaigns have reached public schools and rural areas.
PAWS is not a social club for people fond of cute pets in designer garb, mind you. PAWS is a serious and professional organization that needs dedicated and sincere volunteers. If politicians, celebrities, and other professional volunteers take their time out to help these poor animals, then so can you.
For more information on the projects and missions of PAWS, log on to . If you’re interested in adopting animals, visit the PAWS Animal Rehabilitation Center at Aurora Blvd. Katipunan Valley, Loyola Heights Quezon City.
