Irresponsible dog owners in Dinagat Islands may be disqualified from social services and financial programs of the provincial government, at least based on an executive order issued by Governor Nilo Demerey, Jr.

Section 3 of the order reads:

“Failure of the part of the owner or possessor to take necessary measures will disqualify him and his/her dependents from availing or being a beneficiary of financial programs of the Provincial Local Government Unit of Dinagat Islands.”

These programs include but are not limited to Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS), Medical Assistance to Indigent Patients (MAIP), Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD), Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), education scholarships, and other social services and financial assistance by the provincial government.

The new executive order aims to regulate the mobility of stray dogs and to require owners to take responsibility for road accidents, property damage, or injuries caused by their dogs.

The order said there is an urgent need to establish comprehensive measures to regulate dog mobility, ensure responsible pet ownership, and ensure public safety on roads and public spaces.

“Uncontrolled stray dogs pose significant risks to public safety, including road accidents, motor vehicle collisions, and various injuries to pedestrians and motorists,” the order said.

Under the order, dogs shall be considered stray if they are not accompanied by their owner or even when accompanied by the owner but not leashed, and found wandering in streets, plazas, markets, school premises, and other public places.

Stray dogs will be impounded at the barangay animal shelter.

The provincial government said it is the responsibility of owners to contain their dogs within the premises of their residence or establishment.

Owners should leash or restrain their dogs properly when they bring the animals outside their homes, and that the dogs must be kept leashed at all times if the owner’s property is not fenced or confined.

The order empowers barangay officials to issue written requests to owners of dogs for them to take measures within five days from receipt of notice when their dogs are found to be a nuisance or dangerous.