QuestionsQuestions (DA ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 13)
It is issued pursuant to R.A. No. 8485 (Animal Welfare Act of 1998) and Section 7(9) of R.A. No. 9482 (Anti-Rabies Act of 2007). It amends DA A.O. No. 21 issued on April 26, 1999.
The state must protect and promote animal welfare and ensure strict implementation of R.A. 8485 and relevant provisions of R.A. 9482, allowing only the acceptable and most humane manner of killing animals under given circumstances, minimizing discomfort, pain, fear, and distress.
To set standards and regulate all activities relating to the conduct of euthanasia of animals.
It covers all persons and entities—government or non-government, private companies/organizations, associations, and similar groups—who handle animals as pets, for profession/functions/advocacy/business, and it covers all animals while alive. Euthanasia of food animals for slaughter is governed separately by DA A.O. No. 18 series of 2008.
Section 6 of R.A. 8485 prohibits killing except as provided in the law. Killing must be done through humane procedures using the most scientific methods available as determined and approved by the Committee on Animal Welfare.
Euthanasia is allowed when: (a) the animal has an incurable or communicable disease certified by a licensed veterinarian; (b) killing is necessary to end misery certified by a licensed veterinarian; (c) for animal population control; (d) after authorized research/experiments; (e) to prevent imminent danger to human life or limb; or (f) analogous grounds certified by a licensed veterinarian. It must be performed by a duly licensed veterinarian.
Only licensed firearms shall be used. Only sharpshooters and members of the Philippine National Police and other deputized law enforcement agencies authorized by the concerned LGU may use the firearm.
The preferred method is by injection. Euthanasia must be rapid and humane, occur with the least fear, anxiety, pain, and distress, and consider how the animal is handled during the procedure.
It must always be done away from public view and away from other animals. Legally, it is a specific compliance requirement; violations may be treated as prohibited acts under the order.
Veterinarians involved must secure an S-2 license from the PDEA.
The veterinarian must ensure the animal is dead by checking signs of death: (a) absence of respiration; (b) absence of heartbeat; and (c) dilation of the pupils.
Preferred is intravenous barbiturate injection. Intraperitoneal and intracardiac injections may be used when IV would be distressful/dangerous, especially for heavily sedated/unconscious/anesthetized animals. Neuromuscular blocking agents (e.g., magnesium sulfate or potassium chloride administered to stop the heart) must be used only after Tiletamine with Zolazepam or Ketamine with Diazepam or other sedative combinations.
Because Section 6.2(b)(c) provides that compressed carbon dioxide gas in cylinders is the only recommended source since inflow to the chamber can be precisely regulated; other methods (e.g., dry ice, fire extinguishers, chemical means such as antacids) are unacceptable.
Firearms must be no less than .22 caliber using non-expansive bullets, and the animal should be pursued until death. The shooter should aim at the brain for quick immediate death under the supervision of a duly licensed veterinarian.
It is a concussion/trauma method to the brain. It is acceptable for horses, ruminants, swine, crocodiles, turtles, and tortoises, with adequate restraint for proper placement.
For cats and dogs: barbiturates, inhalant anesthetics, carbon monoxide (from car exhaust using a gasoline engine), potassium chloride, magnesium sulfate with general anesthetics, and gunshot. For horses: gunshot, penetrating captive bolt, barbiturates, and potassium chloride in conjunction with general anesthetics.
They must be handled as humanely as possible. If unable to walk, humane conveyance should be provided for transport or euthanized immediately.
It should be retrieved using humane handling methods or a mechanical stunner (penetrating or percussions, including cartridge and pneumatic captive bolt types), or humanely destroyed if the owner/agent does not want it treated. Water sprays for wetting pigs, cattle, carabao, horses, and goats are recommended in hot weather and should be kept to a minimum.
The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) registers facilities/structures where animals are bred, treated, maintained, or kept for sale/trade/training purposes where euthanasia is conducted, facilitates information exchange, reviews and monitors approved facilities, and provides policy advice. LGUs and other concerned agencies must assist the Director when called upon consistent with their powers, duties, and responsibilities.
Any activity/practice not considered acceptable and humane under the rules is prohibited. Violators who conduct euthanasia contrary to guidelines are punished with imprisonment of not less than 6 months to 2 years or a fine of not less than ₱1,000 to not more than ₱5,000, or both at the court’s discretion. Aliens convicted are immediately deported after sentence. Administrative sanctions may also apply (e.g., cancellation of BAI permit/registration, revocation of establishment accreditation, cancellation of veterinarian license).