Cebu City cracks down on pets left inside parked vehicles

MANDAUE CITY, Cebu — The Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries (DVMF) in Cebu City is reminding pet owners that leaving pets inside parked vehicles without adequate ventilation for prolonged periods is prohibited under City Ordinance No. 1877.

The agency emphasized that this practice can expose animals to extreme heat, stress, suffering, injury, and even death.

Under the ordinance, violators may be fined ₱2,000 for each offense.

“Responsible pet ownership requires ensuring the safety and welfare of animals at all times,” the DVMF said in an advisory issued on Monday, June 8.

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Investigation into pet owner

The DVMF issued the reminder following the conclusion of its investigation into reports from netizens that dogs had been left in a parked vehicle in a mall parking lot for several hours. The agency said its findings will soon be forwarded to the City Legal Office for evaluation and possible legal action.

“The DVMF investigation team conducted a thorough inquiry and gathered the necessary information and evidence related to the incident,” the agency said.

According to the DVMF, the vehicle owner was identified as a resident of Argao, Cebu.

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CO No. 1877

As part of its investigation report, the DVMF is recommending that the City Council pass a resolution requiring all establishments with parking facilities — particularly pet-friendly malls and commercial establishments — to be properly informed of the existence and provisions of City Ordinance (CO) No. 1877.

The proposed resolution also aims to encourage establishments to immediately report similar incidents to the appropriate authorities to ensure prompt intervention.

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CO No. 1877, which was enacted in January 2001, prohibits pet owners from leaving dogs, cats, and other similar animals locked inside vehicles with completely closed windows within the territorial jurisdiction of Cebu City.

The DVMF added that such acts may likewise constitute a violation of Republic Act No. 8485, otherwise known as the Animal Welfare Act.

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