A person who tortures their own pets are useless creatures. Are humans that cruel to commit a crime against defenseless animals?
It’s ironic that humans find solace and a family in their pet dogs, cats, birds, and other animals, yet there are still instances of animal abuse such as beating, hanging, poisoning, suffocating, or kicking these animals. It is also upsetting that some find torturing animals entertaining and a form of trauma response.
In Baguio City, Ordinance 19 s. 2021 or the “Responsible Dog Ownership Ordinance mandates owners to ensure the well-being of their pets. Irresponsible pet owners may be held liable under the ordinance as well as under Republic Act 8485 or The Animal Welfare Act of 1998.
Section 8 of the RA 8485 states: “Any person who violates any of the provisions of this Act shall, upon conviction by final judgment, be punished by imprisonment of not less than six months nor more than two years or a fine or not less than P1,000 but not more than P5,000 or both at the discretion of the Court.”
Similar to humans, animals require basic needs like food, water, and shelter, and love and affection. Pets can also be trained to perform tricks or certain tasks to help their owners survive.
If an owner cannot provide those needs to their pets, why should they insult or inflict harm on them? Witnessing animal cruelty can incite fear and trauma.
Animal abuse will not be overlooked as long as people are educated on what is right and wrong and of people report abuses immediately to authorities.
It significantly helps if people are aware of the consequences of violating laws and ordinances and to abide by the moral code of living beings.
The implementation of laws that protect and ensure the welfare of animals should continuously be monitored.
Like the writer Elizabeth Goudge said: “Nothing living should ever be treated with contempt. Whatever it is that lives, a man, a tree, or a bird, should be touched gently, because the time is short. Civilization is another word for respect for life.”
April 30, 2024
