A fire that broke out in a residential area in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, has killed around 50 pet dogs.

The blaze hit several houses in Barangay Matadero on Saturday, December 27, 2025. The dogs were confirmed dead after the fire spread through the area.

In a social media post, the Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF) said its volunteers responded to the incident and provided immediate assistance to affected fur parents. The group also distributed free food to dogs that survived the fire.

As the country prepares to welcome 2026, AKF renewed its call for pet owners to keep their animals safe, especially from stress caused by loud firecrackers and fireworks during New Year celebrations.

AKF President and Program Director, Atty. Heidi Caguioa, urged the public to avoid firecrackers and to take extra steps to protect animals from loud noise.

“Huwag na tayong magpaputok, huwag muna tayong mag-create ng sobrang ingay kasi stressful po ito at delikado sa mga alagang pets. Actually, hindi lang sa ating mga pets, pati sa wildlife at wild animals,” Caguioa said.

She added that pet owners should prepare a safe and quiet space at home if noise cannot be avoided.

“Kung hindi talaga ito maiiwasan, tayong mga furparents kailangan tayong maghanda. Sana mayroon tayong designated area sa ating bahay kung saan pwede nating ilagak in the meantime, kung saan itong area na ‘to ay komportable at hindi maririnig ang ingay sa labas. Maglagay tayo ng TV, radio, magpatugtog tayo para ma-disturb yung ingay ng paputok na maririnig,” she said.

Caguioa also advised using wraps to help calm stressed pets.

“Pwede tayong maghanda ng anti-anxiety wrap kung saan binabalot po natin yung ating mga pet around their body. Kung wala naman tayong special wrap, pwede naman ang ating mga damit, tuwalya na manipis naman. Ibalot lang sa kanilang katawan para they will feel comforted and secure,” she added.