Written by Sandy Pearl
“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by how its animals are treated.” This powerful quote from Mahatma Gandhi truly reflects the values we should uphold as a society. He also beautifully expressed, “I hold that the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man,” and “I abhor vivisection with my whole soul.” [3]
This sentiment resonates with what our beloved animals (the puspins & the aspins)—be they stray, abandoned, or otherwise—are facing in today’s world. Despite the expectation for society to be more progressive and civilized, many animals still encounter scrutiny and discrimination. This treatment contributes to disdain and, in many cases, abuse of these sentient beings. [1]
Our country does not have laws that discriminate against specific dog or cat breeds, meaning all breeds are generally allowed as long as import regulations are met. This is a great opportunity to highlight some basic information about the current Animal Law that we have. You can check this link to know more.
Breed Bias and Social Perception
Although aspins (asong Pinoy) and puspins (pusang Pinoy) are loving and wonderful pets, they are often overlooked in favor of purebred animals due to societal conditioning and outdated beliefs. This is ironic, especially in light of Mahatma Gandhi’s quote that begins our blog.
How we treat animals—particularly our native species—reflects our values as individuals and as a society. By choosing imported or purebred pets over local ones, we convey a lack of appreciation for what is ours. This mindset reveals deeper issues about our self-perception and national identity.
If we take Gandhi’s words to heart, we might begin to see the true worth of our native cats and dogs. Choosing to love and care for them can be a meaningful step toward becoming better individuals and a better nation.
What Can Be Done: Changing the Narrative
As an individual, you have what it takes to make and be part of a progressive and better change for the lives of our beloved Puspins & Aspins, here are some of them:
- Adopt, Don’t Shop – Choosing to adopt native breeds from reputable organizations like CARA Welfare Philippines helps reduce overpopulation and gives an animal a second chance at life.
- Raise Awareness – If you are a volunteer or planning to be one, sharing success stories of aspins and puspins who’ve thrived in loving homes can make a difference. Also, platforms like CARA post adoptables and rescue stories that inspire empathy and action.
- Debunking the Myths
- Myth: Aspins are aggressive or untrainable.
- Truth: With proper care and training, aspins are incredibly loyal and intelligent.
- Myth: Puspins are prone to illness.
- Truth: Puspins, being native, have adapted well to our climate and are often healthier than inbred purebreds.
- Influence Through Social Media – Use platforms like TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook to share photos, videos, and updates of your aspin or puspin. Representation matters.
- Educate Future Pet Owners – Campaigns in schools, barangays, or even websites like CARA Welfare Philippines can help instill compassion for all breeds, not just the ones with fancy names.
Love Knows No Breed
At the end of the day, what makes a great pet isn’t their pedigree—it’s their capacity for love, loyalty, and companionship. Aspins and puspins don’t need a fancy name to be worthy of your love. They just need a chance.
So the next time you think about bringing a pet home, look beyond the breed. Visit your local shelter. Let your heart, not the label, lead the way.
References
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/pet-friendly-philippine-restaurant-slammed-for-discriminating-against-mutts-mongrels
- https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra1998/ra_8485_1998.html#:~:text=It%20is%20the%20purpose%20of%20this%20Act,objects%20of%20trade%20or%20as%20household%20pets.&text=No%20cruel%20confinement%20or%20restraint%20shall%20be%20made%20on%20such%20animals%20while%20being%20transported
- Akbarsha, M. A., & Pereira, S. (2010). Mahatma Gandhi–Doerenkamp Center for Alternatives to Use of Animals in Life Science Education. Journal of Pharmacology & Pharmacotherapeutics, 1(2), 108. https://doi.org/10.4103/0976-500X.72353
