The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) is now working with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) regarding a viral post showing a dog panting in the trunk of a car in Taguig. According to the post by Jade Typoco De Guzman, they spotted the dog while traveling. The driver allegedly opened the trunk while running a red light, and a motorist saw the dog clearly in distress.
De Guzman's companion called the driver's attention, saying that he was "killing the dog." But the driver just smiled. Many netizens commented and demanded action from PAWS. According to PAWS, it is clear that this treatment of the animal is illegal.
PAWS said in their statement that transporting animals in the back of a vehicle, especially in hot weather, is cruel and illegal. According to Section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act, such an act is considered cruelty. This is not just negligence but a criminal offense.
The LTO is currently investigating the case to determine if the driver committed a traffic violation. Meanwhile, PAWS is also preparing a complaint for animal cruelty.
The driver's brother allegedly messaged De Guzman and said the dog was safe. According to him, the dog was rescued from the pound but was placed in the trunk because it might bite. But for De Guzman, even with good intentions, it was still the wrong way.
