ILOILO – The Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) will provide free neutering services for native male dogs and cats — locally known as aspins (Asong Pinoy) and puspins (Pusang Pinoy) — on April 8 as part of the 124th Semana sang Iloilo celebration scheduled from April 7 to 11.
In addition to neutering, the PVO will also offer vitamin supplementation and deworming services during the activity, which will be held behind the Philippine National Museum (Old Prison) in Iloilo.
“The Iloilo Provincial Government is thrilled to announce the 124th Semana sang Iloilo… the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian will be offering free neutering services, vitamin supplementation, and deworming for your beloved pets,” the PVO said in its public announcement.
To allow more pet owners to benefit from the initiative, the PVO clarified that only two pets per owner will be accommodated.
Registration is now open and can be done by visiting the PVO at the fifth floor of the Iloilo Provincial Capitol or by calling (033) 328-7900 local 137.
The PVO issued the following reminders for dog and cat owners who wish to avail of the services:
* Only apparently healthy animals are eligible.
* Pets must be aged between six months and seven years.
* Priority will be given to native breeds (aspins and puspins).
* Pets must be vaccinated against rabies at least 14 days prior to surgery. Proof of vaccination may be required.
There are pre-surgery preparations. The night before surgery:
* withhold all food for at least six hours before the scheduled surgery
* bathe your pet or clean the genital and abdominal areas thoroughly
* ensure pets are completely dry before being brought to the venue
* remove access to water first thing in the morning of the surgery day
On the morning of surgery, do not feed or give water to pets; fasting is essential to avoid vomiting during anesthesia.
Pet owners are required to sign a consent form, which will be provided by PVO staff upon registration./PN
