Police defend K9 care after photo of gaunt bomb dog draws outrage in Philippines
Officers insist Kobe was fit for duty but animal rights groups demand transparency and reform
The Belgian Malinois, named Kobe, was pictured beside his handler at the blast site in Tondo, Manila, where four people were injured in what police said was the accidental detonation of an air conditioner compressor on Sunday.
But what drew widespread public attention was not the explosion – from which all four victims were expected to recover – but Kobe’s condition. In images posted to the Philippine Star’s official social media account, the dog’s visible bones and gaunt frame prompted concern over possible malnourishment.
“This kind of condition in a working dog should be a serious concern for animal welfare and operational readiness,” said animal welfare advocate Dominic Balandra Epe, echoing a chorus of concern across Filipino social media.
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Social media user Geraldine Agbisit-Pelobello said Kobe appeared malnourished and in need of urgent care. “I think the K9 unit has a budget but not enough. They must be given enough food, vitamins and check-ups for maintenance. I hope those in-charge will look into the welfare of these K9 dogs,” she wrote.