Dogs were not just pets but potential healers during a temperament testing and orientation for “Dr. Dogs” at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Home for Girls in Cebu City on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
The activity is part of the Angel Pets Program, a DSWD led initiative under the leadership of Secretary Rex Gatchalian, implemented in partnership with the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS).
The program introduces animal assisted therapy in residential care facilities, helping clients, especially abuse survivors, cope with trauma and improve emotional well-being.
“This is our temperament testing activity for the doctor dogs,” said PAWS Executive Director Atty. Anna Cabrera. “We want to see if the dogs can take extreme stress… even sudden pulling of the ear or the tail. Even if there is shouting, they should be very tolerant.”
Only dogs that pass strict standards can qualify. They must be at least two years old, fully vaccinated, clean, and spayed or neutered.
“We insist that the doctor dogs must be spayed or neutered,” Cabrera said. “It’s not just for stopping reproduction… it’s also healthier for your pet.”
The program, which started in Metro Manila, is now being brought to the Visayas for the first time. Cabrera said the expansion is driven by the growing need for alternative therapy inside DSWD facilities caring for abused and trafficked girls.
“These girls have undergone something very traumatic in their lives,” she said. “One of the best therapies is animal assisted therapy.”
A six-month pilot study in Metro Manila showed promising results.
“There was a 99.7% efficacy on the effects on the patients,” Cabrera added. “The shy ones who don’t talk… they became more sociable after spending time with the dogs.”
For DSWD, the program is more than just therapy. It is a new approach to care.
“Angel Pets Project aims to uplift the well-being of our clients,” said Pao Villanueva Cornel, Social Welfare Officer III from DSWD’s Social Technology Bureau. “This is one of its kind… a fusion of social welfare and animal welfare.”
The agency plans to roll out regular “ALAGA Sessions,” which stands for Adaptive Life Assistance Given by Animals, or animal assisted therapy sessions, starting June in selected residential care facilities, including the Home for Girls in Cebu.
Local animal welfare groups are also stepping in to support the program’s growth.
“Dog is not only a dog, it has a purpose talaga,” said Annalyn Aizpuru, president of Island Rescue Organization.
She shared that some of the dogs that joined the assessment were rescued strays, including Hyper and Phil, who both passed the testing and are now certified doctor dogs.
“Even rescue dogs… they don’t hate. They are still grateful,” Aizpuru said, adding that many of these animals came from cases of abandonment and neglect.
“Always remember, walang stray dog’s kung walang owner na pabaya,” she said. “Let’s be responsible, love our dogs. Because they are part of our family and a lifetime commitment.”
As more dogs are trained and the program rolls out in Cebu, organizers hope these “Angel Pets” will provide comfort and companionship, helping those in care feel safe, supported, and less alone.
Photos and story by: Jacq Hernandez, PBB Photojournalist
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