The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in collaboration with the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), recently relaunched its animal-assisted therapy initiative called the Angel Pets Program which, according to DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao is “designed to facilitate rehabilitation and reintegration of vulnerable groups through sessions that incorporate positive and enjoyable interactions with animals into therapeutic and supportive processes.”
While animal-assisted intervention has long been a staple of holistic healthcare in Western nations, its formal integration into Philippine social services is a recent milestone. The launch of the Angel Pets Program represents a significant clinical breakthrough in the local setting. By institutionalizing the use of “Doctor Dogs,” the Philippines is now adopting a globally proven model to provide specialized emotional sanctuary for its most vulnerable citizens.
A recent evaluation report shared by PAWS Executive Director Atty. Anna Cabrera revealed a 99.04% positive outcome in promoting emotional healing among beneficiaries. The program was executed in numerous DSWD Centers and Residential Care Facilities (CRCFs.)
The Angel Pets Program has three components: Animal-Assisted Life Guidance (ALAGA), Advocacy, Research and Learning (ARAL), and Lunas Suri (Healing Assessment). All three aim to enhance lives, boost emotional health, and promote social connections.
Among the beneficiaries is Sanctuary Center, a 24-hour residential care facility that serves as a refuge for abandoned, neglected, and unattached adult women with improved psycho-social disability. Center head Virginia Daniles said she has seen the immediate positive effects of the emotional support dogs on the residents. “‘Yung smile, happiness, sana ma-sustain at ma-apply din natin sa ibang residential facilities dahil kahit meet-and-greet pa lang with the Doctor Dogs, engaged at uplifted na ang mood nila.”
Looking ahead
As the Angel Pets Program continues its pilot phase, both the DSWD and PAWS have expressed optimism that this model will strengthen support for some of the country’s most vulnerable individuals.
The outcome of the program will help government officials and caregivers understand the long-term impact of animal-assisted therapy on rehabilitation, with the hope of expanding it to more facilities across the country.
“Through Angel Pets, we’ve been working to make compassionate, evidence-based care more visible and accessible to those who need it most,” PAWS explained.
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian adds: “Like PAWS, DSWD wants to create a better place for all of us, whether you are a two-legged individual or a four-legged fellow,” he explained. “DSWD fights for those who cannot speak for themselves.”
