Under Republic Act No. No. 9482 (May 25, 2007) otherwise known as the “Anti-Rabies” enumerates the responsibilities of dog owners:

“SEC. 5. Responsibilities of Pet Owner. – All Pet Owners shall be required to:

(a) Have their Dog regularly vaccinated against Rabies and maintain a registration card which shall contain all vaccinations conducted on their Dog, for accurate record purposes.

(b) Submit their Dogs for mandatory registration.

(c) Maintain control over their Dog and not allow it to roam the streets or any Public Place without a leash.

(d) Be a responsible Owner by providing their Dog with proper grooming, adequate food and clean shelter.

(e) Within twenty-four (24) hours, report immediately any Dog biting incident to the Concerned Officials for investigation or for any appropriate action and place such Dog under observation by a government or private veterinarian. 

(f) Assist the Dog bite victim immediately and shoulder the medical expenses incurred and other incidental expenses relative to the victim’s injuries.”

Causing Dela Cruz and Bernal Law Office is an Iloilo City-based law office with experience in animal protection policy making and advises people organizations on animal welfare.