BACOLod CITY: The city government will establish a PHP10-million dog shelter in Hacienda Conchita, Barangay Granada, capable of accommodating up to 1,000 dogs. This initiative will be funded by a portion of its loan from the Development Bank of the Philippines.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dr. John Michael Cabuguason, assistant city veterinarian, emphasized the need for Bacolod, as a ‘super city,’ to address the persistent issue of stray dogs. In a recent interview, Cabuguason mentioned that the proposal is in its final stages and highlighted Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez’s commitment to pursuing this project.

Cabuguason noted that constructing infrastructure to house stray dogs is crucial to the solution. He expressed hope that the shelter will be completed by the middle of next year, acknowledging the urgency of the situation.

Currently, the City Veterinary Office (CVO) manages a dog pound with a capacity of 150 dogs at its compound in Barangay 35. Mayor Benitez previously pointed out the neces
sity for a larger facility to accommodate all stray dogs collected by the CVO, as the current pound is insufficient for the number of dogs needing care.