Animal Lives Matter: Prevent, pre-empt hit-and-run

Thousands of motorists knocked a cat or dog down in their car and then driving off, leaving the animal on the roadside.

This is what exactly happened to “Oh,” a poor cat who was a victim of a hit-and-run by an irresponsible motorist last January 11. Oh (as named by her rescuer Ms. Rodelyn) was almost lifeless as left lying in the street of J.P. Rizal, Maly, San Mateo when rescued by Ms. Rodelyn Paras Llorico of Project Compawssion. Oh was then brought to us by Project Compawssion on the following day and Doc Joseph de Guzman personally handled the case and gave the necessary treatment (love and care). But the damaged, trauma and injuries Oh had due to the incident didn’t allow her to survive.

Oh’s story is definitely not extra-ordinary as thousands of dogs injured or died on Philippine roads every day as drivers don’t brake for animals. A cruel fact that a life was snuffed out in a second by a speeding car driver, with no thought, no respect for life and no punishment. Other motorists even deliberately speed up or hit a crossing animal or helpless puppies, kittens and already weak dogs and cats.

But Oh’s story is yelling out – “Enough of this cruelty!”

What we need is a greater responsibility, to ensure that such drivers don’t speed but treat the pain and suffering they cause with appropriate respect and pay the penalty.

We hope that Oh will remind every one of us about having compassion and love for the animals around us.

Let us all be responsible. Remember that little things matter, the things we do for animal welfare and protection can go a long way –

Be a RESPONSIBLE MOTORIST! Know your responsibilities, follow traffic rules and be reminded that you should #BrakeforAnimals.

Make sure to be extra vigilant and aware especially during night time, practice defensive driving in order to lower your chances of any probable accidents on the road.

For pet owners – remember that allowing your pet to roam freely without a leash, in public streets or outside your home (even at your presence) is also a violation of RA9482 or The Anti Rabies Act. Protect them from being harmed or being harmful to others.

If you are the driver – If you’re involved in an accident and an animal (whether in another vehicle or on the road) is injured you must stop, even if it wasn’t your fault. Take full responsibility, respond humanely while addressing potential insurance and legal implications.

DO NOT IGNORE or LEAVE THE ANIMAL WITHOUT PROPER CARE AND TREATMENT – if the animal can be moved and handled SAFELY, bring the animal to the nearest vet or at least try and move the animal to a safe area, away from further injury. You can also call the local government or the MMDA to assist, or seek help from the Barangay or from an animal welfare group.