by: Gelaine Louise D. Gutierrez
QUEZON CITY (PIA) – The Angel Pets program, a collaboration between the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Dr. Dogs of the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), provides more than just therapy; it fosters moments of joy, trust, and connection for individuals who often struggle to find these in conventional clinical settings.
On December 7, these Dr. Dogs visited the residents of Mandaluyong City’s DSWD Sanctuary Center. Through activities known as “Alaga Sessions,” the program promotes the transformative power of unconditional love and friendship, creating meaningful animal interactions. This effort plays an important role in the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals under the agency’s care, back into the community.
Sharon Yap, Education and Campaign Officer of PAWS shared in an interview with the Philippine Information Agency – National Capital Region (PIA-NCR) that there are currently 20 volunteer Dr. Dogs in Metro Manila.
“We need more volunteers, especially with our partnership with the DSWD. This would allow us to cater to more facilities, as we’re currently working with only two. It’s incredibly helpful—not just for our education campaigns, but also for seeing the joy it brings to the residents here at the Sanctuary. The presence of the animals significantly helps in their reintegration into the community,” Yap explained.
The DSWD Sanctuary Center, one of the pilot facilities for the Angel Pets program, provides care and support to women aged 18 and above who have experienced abuse, neglect, or psycho-social disabilities.
If you believe your dog can make a difference in the lives of others, here are the qualifications to become a Dr. Dog:
- Age: Must be at least 2 years old
- Health: Must be in good health and up-to-date on vaccinations
- Reproductive Status: Must be spayed or neutered
- Temperament: Must have a calm, friendly, and positive attitude
- Skills: Must know basic obedience skills
- Certification: Must pass the Dr. Dog Examination
For more information or to start your application, you can send an email to info@paws.org.ph or visit their website at https://paws.org.ph/dr-dog. (GLDG/PIA-NCR)
(Photos by PIA-NCR)
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