A cat died during a low-cost neuter procedure.
It is heartbreaking, and the owner’s grief is understandable.
But before we rush to judgment, let us ask an important question:
How far should ₱350 go?
At ₱350, a clinic still has to provide surgical supplies, anesthetics, equipment, utilities, manpower, and professional veterinary services.
The reality is simple.
Nobody is getting rich performing ₱350 cat neuters.
Community clinics offer these services because they believe veterinary care should remain accessible to ordinary pet owners. They do it because they care about animal welfare, population control, and responsible pet ownership.
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The Question of Informed Consent
According to statements released, pre-anesthetic blood testing was recommended, risks were discussed, and consent forms were signed.
The discussion then shifted to a statement that should concern everyone:
“I signed it, but I did not read it.”
Informed consent works only when both sides participate.
Veterinarians have the responsibility to explain.
Clients have the responsibility to listen, ask questions, and read what they are signing.
Anesthesia Is Never Risk-Free
Anesthesia is never risk-free.
Even young and apparently healthy animals can have hidden conditions that only become apparent during a procedure.
That is exactly why blood tests are recommended before surgery.
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A Call for a Fair Investigation
I respectfully call on Mayor Johnielle Keith Pasion Nieto to investigate this case fairly and thoroughly.
Review the records.
Review the consent forms.
Review the clinic protocols.
Review the recommendations that were made.
Most importantly, review all the facts before conclusions are drawn.
If mistakes were committed, accountability should follow.
But if the evidence shows that protocols were followed, risks were disclosed, and reasonable efforts were made, then fairness demands that this be recognized as well.
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Let the Facts Lead
Cainta Animal Clinic has spent years serving the community and making veterinary care accessible to pet owners who might otherwise have none.
A cat’s death is a tragedy.
But the destruction of a community clinic without due process can become another tragedy.
Let the facts lead.
Not emotions.
Not assumptions.
Because justice is strongest when it is based on evidence.
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Dr. Geoff Carullo is a Fellow and the current President of the Philippine College of Canine Practitioners.
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