The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Central Visayas (DSWD-7) will conduct its second screening for therapy dogs on May 16, 2026. This initiative aims to expand its Angel Pets Program, which focuses on incorporating trained dogs into psychosocial care.
The screening will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center II in Barangay Labangon, Cebu City.
Criteria for Therapy Dogs
To qualify for the Angel Pets Program, dogs must meet specific criteria: they should be at least two years old, physically healthy with updated vaccinations, spayed or neutered, and possess a calm temperament. Additionally, they need to demonstrate basic obedience and pass the Doctor Dog examinations.
Assessment Process
During the screening, dogs will be evaluated for their reactions to unfamiliar sounds and situations. Assessors will expose them to various scenarios to determine their ability to remain calm under stress.
Annalyn Aizpuru, president of the Island Rescue Organization, emphasized the importance of this assessment to ensure dogs can effectively support individuals in therapeutic settings.
Benefits of Therapy Dogs
The Angel Pets Program aims to assist individuals facing emotional challenges by fostering guided interactions with therapy dogs. These sessions will particularly benefit residents at the Home for Girls in Central Visayas, aiding in their recovery from trauma.
DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao noted that integrating therapy animals enhances psychosocial interventions, offering a compassionate approach to healing.
The program also promotes responsible pet ownership through advocacy campaigns to raise public awareness.
In the first screening on April 8, 2026, eleven volunteer dogs participated, with plans to recruit at least 20 therapy dogs for future sessions.