Question & AnswerQ&A (DA ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 13)
The main policy objective is to protect and promote the welfare of animals in the Philippines by ensuring humane and painless methods are used during euthanasia, in accordance with Republic Act No. 8485 and pertinent provisions of Republic Act No. 9482.
All persons, including government and non-government institutions, private companies or organizations, associations, and peoples organizations that handle animals as pets, livelihood, profession, advocacy, or business.
Every non-human species of animal, both domestic and wild, including dogs, cats, livestock, and fowl. Food animals for slaughter are covered by a separate regulation (DA AO No. 18 series of 2008).
Only duly licensed veterinarians are authorized to perform euthanasia of animals.
Euthanasia is allowed when the animal has an incurable or communicable disease, to end an animal's misery, for animal population control, after use in authorized research, to prevent imminent danger to humans, or on analogous grounds certified by a licensed veterinarian.
Methods include intravenous barbiturate injection, intraperitoneal or intracardiac barbiturate injection, neuromuscular blocking agents after sedation, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide in cylinders, firearms by authorized personnel, and penetrating captive bolt among others depending on species.
Firearms must be licensed and be no less than .22 caliber using non-expansive bullets; use must be by sharpshooters or authorized law enforcement; the target should be the brain, and the vet must supervise.
Violators may be punished with imprisonment from six months to two years, a fine ranging from P1,000 to P5,000, or both. Foreign violators shall be deported after serving sentence. Administrative sanctions may also be imposed.
They are tasked to register animal confinement facilities, monitor and review approved facilities, provide policy advice, facilitate information exchange, and coordinate with agencies to ensure efficient implementation.
Veterinarians must secure an S-2 license to legally prescribe or use dangerous drugs such as barbiturates in performing euthanasia.