KUALA LUMPUR: The dumping of pet animals, such as cats and dogs, has tripled in and around the federal capital amidst the Movement Control Order (MCO), said Malaysian Animal Association president Arie Dwi Andika.
He said this is based on information provided by community feeders, who report that they have spotted newly abandoned animals at several locations, such as remote industrial and non-residential areas.
He said irresponsible owners are selecting these areas as they would be at lower risk of getting caught.
“For example, (this particular) area usually has five (abandoned) dogs, but yesterday, it tripled to 18 to 20 dogs. All these dogs are friendly, in good health, clean and not aggressive,” he said when contacted by Bernama here today.
Arie does not rule out the possibility that the pet owners are acting out of fear of Covid-19 infection from their animals, or not being able to look after them after losing their source of income due to the MCO.
“This is not a humanitarian act. Why has the love (for their pets) faded? What is the fate of these cats and dogs which have considered the owners as their family members all this while?” he questioned.
He called on the authorities to implement a microchip identification system and making it compulsory, as it would help detect owners who have dumped their animals.
Meanwhile, Lawyer Nor Zabetha Muhammad Nor said pet owners who fail to provide proper lodging, healthcare and diet to their pets can be charged under the Animal Welfare Act 2015.
It is an offence under Section 29 (1) (p) of the Act, which carries a fine of not less than RM20,000 and not more than RM100,000, or imprisonment of up to three years, upon conviction, she said. – BERNAMA