Not all heroes wear uniforms. Some walk quietly on four paws, wag their tails, and offer comfort without saying a word. In Cebu City, another batch of dogs is preparing for a special role that could help trauma survivors and vulnerable communities heal in a gentler way. Read the full story on how these therapy dogs are becoming part of a growing mental health initiative in Central Visayas.
A New Round of Screening Begins
The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Central Visayas is set to hold its second therapy dog evaluation on May 16, 2026. The screening will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center II in Barangay Labangon, Cebu City. This forms part of the agency’s Angel Pets Program, a locally documented animal-assisted therapy initiative designed to bring trained dogs into psychosocial care services.
The evaluation focuses on how dogs respond to different situations that may happen during therapy sessions. Assessors observe their reactions to unfamiliar sounds, sudden movements, handling, and interaction with strangers. The goal is to ensure that the dogs remain calm, gentle, and controlled even in stressful environments.
More Than Just Friendly Pets
The program highlights how animals can help people cope emotionally, especially those recovering from trauma. Instead of relying only on traditional approaches, the initiative introduces therapy dogs as companions during structured mental health sessions. Their presence is expected to help create a safer and more comforting atmosphere for participants.
According to DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, the therapy dogs will support emotional and psychological wellness programs in Cebu. The selected dogs are expected to participate in regular activities for residents at the Home for Girls in Central Visayas. Many of the residents are recovering from difficult experiences, making emotional support a key part of their rehabilitation.
Dogs That Passed the Challenge
During the first screening, 11 volunteer dogs successfully qualified as “Doctor Dogs.” Different breeds joined the evaluation, including golden retrievers, shih tzus, dachshunds, huskies, Alaskan malamutes, poodles, and aspins. The mix of breeds showed that temperament and behavior matter more than appearance or pedigree.
Island Rescue Organization president Annalyn Aizpuru earlier explained that the dogs go through situations meant to test their composure. Some are exposed to unusual sounds and social interactions to see if they can stay relaxed and responsive. The process helps determine whether a dog can safely work around people who may be emotionally vulnerable.
Partnership Behind the Program
The Angel Pets Program is being carried out through a partnership between DSWD, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society, the DSWD Social Technology Bureau, the Field Office 7 Social Technology Unit, and the Island Rescue Organization. The collaboration brings together mental health advocates, animal welfare groups, and rehabilitation workers under one initiative.
Preparations are also underway for a wider rollout across the region this June. With more therapy dogs expected to join the program, organizers hope to reach more communities in need of emotional and psychosocial support. Cebu’s growing therapy dog movement is now showing how care, comfort, and healing can sometimes begin with a simple paw beside you.
