July 19, 2023

Come on Dog, Be Smarter Than Your Owner!

Dog also known in various Filipino dialects as aso, iro, ido asu or asong. However you call this canine species, one thing for sure, they’re truly extraordinary, yet their human owners might occasionally display a lack of consideration.

Within the Philippine context, it is not an uncommon sight to witness dogs barking incessantly day and night, or leaving their feces on sidewalks and public spaces. Such behaviors become a nuisance for those dwelling in apartments or residing close to parks, not to mention the potential health hazards they pose.

Regrettably, various animal organizations in the Philippines seem more engrossed in advocating for animal rights than advocating for the rights of fellow humans. While they are swift to condemn those who mistreat dogs, they appear hesitant to address the problems caused by irresponsible dog owners.

This poses a significant predicament as it sends the message that disturbances caused by dogs are tolerable and that environmental pollution is acceptable. Additionally, it hinders genuine victims harassed by unruly dogs from receiving the assistance they desperately need.

So, what solutions can we propose?

1. We must raise awareness about this issue.

The general public needs to comprehend that incessant barking and public defecation by dogs are not socially acceptable behaviors. Furthermore, we need to hold negligent dog owners accountable for their actions.

2. We must support organizations dedicated to tackling this issue becomes essential.

Several commendable groups in the Philippines focus on educating dog owners about responsible pet ownership. Our support can be extended through monetary contributions or volunteering our time for their noble cause.

3. Let’s be proactive.

Whenever we encounter a dog barking or defecating in public places, we should speak up. Courteously requesting the owner to remove the dog from the vicinity is one approach, and reporting the problem to the appropriate authorities is another.

It is high time for dogs to outsmart their human companions. We must hold irresponsible dog owners accountable and back the efforts of organizations working towards resolving this matter. Together, we can foster a more habitable and harmonious Philippines for all.

Bard 10 trivia about dogs in the Philippines:

The Philippines has a long history of dog-keeping, dating back to the pre-colonial era.
The most popular dog breed in the Philippines is the Aspin, also known as the Philippine Asong Pinoy.
The Aspin is a mixed-breed dog that is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and adaptability.
Other popular dog breeds in the Philippines include the German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, and Beagle.
The Philippines is home to a number of dog festivals, including the Aspin Festival in San Pablo City, Laguna, and the Dog Show in Manila.
The national dog of the Philippines is the Askal, also known as the Philippine Street Dog.
The Askal is a stray dog that is known for its resilience and ability to survive in harsh conditions.
The Askal is often seen as a symbol of hope and resilience in the Philippines.
The Philippines is a dog-friendly country, and dogs are welcome in many public places.
The Philippines has a number of dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, and cafes.

Additional Tips for Handling Noisy or Defecating Dogs:

Engage in dialogue with the owner

When witnessing a dog causing disturbances or leaving waste in public, the initial step is to approach the owner and politely communicate the issue, urging them to address it promptly.

Report to authorities

In cases where the owner shows reluctance to address the problem, filing a complaint with the local government or the Department of Agriculture in the Philippines becomes a viable course of action.

Employ noise complaint apps

Technological solutions come to the rescue, with various noise complaint apps available to promptly report instances of noisy dogs. Once alerted, the authorities can investigate the complaint accordingly.

Install a motion-activated sprinkler

To deter dogs from incessant barking at night, installing a motion-activated sprinkler in one’s yard proves to be an effective measure. The spritz of water when the dog approaches the property discourages such behavior.

By adhering to these guidelines, we can collectively contribute to transforming the Philippines into a more agreeable and comfortable living environment for all its inhabitants.

But when all else fails, maybe a pet AI will work best for both inconsiderate and considerate pet-loving humans.