The Philippines have experienced different types of calamities within the year 2020. Last January, the Taal volcano erupted affecting the places near it. Afraid of leaving their houses unattended, many left their dogs for them to guard their house. Some animals were also left behind as Filipinos scramble for safety from the Taal Volcano eruption. Answering the call for help regarding the animals, volunteers go into the area and check up on the dogs and leave them food and water for them to survive. Rescuers also worked to save abandoned animals during the Taal Volcano eruption. The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) was able to rescue 132 animals amid the Taal Volcano eruption. Among them were abandoned dogs who will soon find new care in foster homes.

Another incident is with the recent Typhoon Ulysses that struck the Philippines where an alarming number of pets were left behind and some even chained despite the severe flooding that occurred. A video went viral of a stray dog searching for safety and swimming in the flood. There were other numerous videos about abandoned dogs which spread in social media. After the typhoon, bodies of animals were found amid the mud and the Philippine Animal Welfare Society reminded pet owners to unchain their pets if ever they aren’t able to evacuate them since freeing them during a calamity would increase their opportunity for survival.

Pets have lives too. Having animal rescue during calamity would save lots of animal lives. It is an effort made by volunteers to save animals during calamities. During these calamities, we should also consider the welfare of our animals. We should help each other out for all of use to survive the calamity. We are considered the stewards of God’s creation. Let us live up to this by taking care of the animals alongside us. Simple acts would suffice and aid them in their survival in life.