We have often talked about some of the myths surrounding dog husbandry in the Philippines and how sadly these are still practised in less educated, provincial areas. One of these myths is the tying of an elastic band, or banding of a dog’s testicles, in order to neuter it.
What is banding?
Whilst banding is commonly used to castrate sheep or cattle – it is not a suitable practice for dogs. The anatomy of a dog’s scrotum is different to that of a cow or sheep. Rather than the circulation being cut to cause the testicles to shrivel and drop off in some farm animals, with dogs the circulation isn’t cut off, but the scrotum becomes lacerated. This leads to infection which can cause serious illness or death in a dog. It is also extremely painful.
Still seen today
Banding a dog is a form of abuse and must not be practised. Unfortunately, just last week at a Mobile Clinic in Tarlac City, a banded dog was presented for neutering.
The owner claims that he acquired the dog with the band already in situ. When the testicles didn’t drop off, but instead became swollen, the owner sought help from our vet team at the free Spay and Neuter Clinic.
You can see from the photos how sore the skin looks where the band is tied. The dog is lucky not to have obtained a serious injury as a result of this horrendous act. Fortunately, our Head Vet Doc Roland successfully and correctly neutered the dog, who will make a full recovery.
Education is key
It is examples such as this as to why we feel so passionate about educating people on responsible pet ownership. Our Education Programme continues to work at Mobile Clinics, in schools and online to dispel myths and teach best practice. We want to prevent unnecessary suffering to the dogs of the Philippines.
We can only do this with the help of our supporters. Without your generous donations we would not be able to offer free spay and neuter operations at the Treatment Centre or during Mobile Clinics. Nor would we be able to fund the resources and personnel required to run the Education Programme.
For most of us in the UK, knowing how to properly care for a dog is second nature, but the situation isn’t quite the same in the Philippines, yet. With your help, hopefully soon, responsible pet ownership will be commonplace. Could you help us by making a donation towards our Education or Spay and Neuter Programme?
Thank you.
