HOW CAN I FIGHT PET SMUGGLING?

1 CONTACT THE AUTHORITIES

If you have concrete proof someone is smuggling pets into the Philippines, or if you believe someone is maltreating their exotic pet even if they possess a permit, contact the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB). The PAWB is the government agency tasked with handling wildlife and exotic animal concerns.

2 #Adoptdontshop

Animal welfare organizations, shelters, and local pounds have tons of cats and dogs up for adoption all the time. The love of a puspin or aspin is just as sweet as that of a purebred or exotic pet.

3 IF YOU ARE SET ON BUYING AN EXOTIC ANIMAL, DO YOUR RESEARCH BEFOREHAND

Make sure it isn’t a critically endangered species! Read up on the animal and what they need; they might require special food or medicine not commonly available in the Philippines. Also, don’t forget to check if your pet trader has a Wildlife Farm Permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

4 REGISTER YOUR EXOTIC PET

Don’t let your pet get confiscated by the DENR. The DENR issues the Certificate of Wildlife Registration for a minimal fee.