Angeles City Dog Pound Draws Praise as Regional Model for Humane Animal Care

ANGELES CITY, Pampanga — The Angeles City No-Kill Dog Pound is gaining significant attention from animal welfare advocates and government agencies after earning commendations from Bataan Animal Welfare and receiving recognition as the sole Model Dog Pound/Shelter in Central Luzon.

The acknowledgment comes as animal groups continue to raise concerns over viral videos showing harsh conditions in some pounds nationwide. In contrast, Bataan Animal Welfare lauded the Angeles City facility for demonstrating what a “genuinely compassionate and well-managed” local government-run pound can look like — emphasizing that humane systems, not euthanasia, should be the standard response to stray animal issues.

A Structured and Humane System

The city’s dog pound operates on a clear process centered on animal welfare: Catch → Spay/Neuter → Vaccinate → Adoption.

During a recent operation on September 15, 2025, the City Veterinary Office rescued stray dogs in Barangay Pulung Maragul. The animals were vaccinated against rabies, sterilized, and prepared for adoption. City officials also reiterated the importance of responsible pet ownership to reduce stray populations and maintain community safety.

Animal welfare supporters have since urged other local governments to study Angeles City’s model, saying the system proves that “genuine care from pound administrators” can lead to successful, humane outcomes.

Regional Recognition

Angeles City’s approach was further validated when it was named the only Model Dog Pound/Shelter awardee in Region 3 for its strong implementation of the Rabies Program — a key initiative in the drive toward a Rabies-Free Central Luzon by 2030.

The award was given during the Inter-Agency Task Force Meeting on October 16, 2025, held at the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office III in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga. The gathering reviewed regional strategies on Avian Influenza, African Swine Fever, and rabies control.

City Veterinarian Dr. Mario Samson Jr. expressed gratitude to Mayor Jon Lazatin, crediting the recognition to the city’s sustained commitment to animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.

With growing support from both advocacy groups and regional authorities, Angeles City is positioning itself as a national example of humane, science-based, and community-driven animal management — offering a potential blueprint for other LGUs aiming to improve their pound systems while strengthening public health and animal welfare.