A Filipino dog or Aspin was killed by a stab after taking meat from a market in Barangay 154, Caloocan City on Wednesday, January 7. According to CCTV footage, the dog can be seen approaching a yellow plastic crate and snatching the meat. A man wearing an apron immediately responded to the scene, picked up a knife, and stabbed the dog.
Although the bloody dog was still running, police rescued it just after 8:00 a.m. and rushed it to the veterinary hospital. Despite immediate treatment, the dog could not cope with the severity of its injuries and later died. According to the City Veterinary Department, doctors tried to save it, but the animal could not be revived due to the severe physical trauma.
The incident was reported to the LGU-Caloocan on January 13 and an investigation was immediately conducted. With the help of CCTV footage, the City Vet is confident that the identity of the suspect and the owner of Aspin will be determined. Dr. Teodoro Rosales, City Veterinarian, also emphasized that the dog's hunger and survival instincts are the reason why it acted to search for food.
According to Dr. Rosales, animal cruelty is prohibited under the Animal Welfare Act. “It is not the animal’s fault that it is on the road. It is the dog’s survival instinct. It will look for food. It should not be harmed,” he explained. Aside from cruelty, the dog owner may be liable under the local ordinance for neglecting the pet.
The LGU assured that it will look into the case to serve as a lesson to all. They also called on residents to instead of harming the dogs, just report them to their office for rescue. “If there is a disturbing dog in your area, just call us, we will rescue it. Don't harm,” reminded Ian Estopa, Administrative Officer 1 of the City Vet. Corresponding cases are currently being prepared against the suspect while coordination with the barangay and the police continues.
