SPCA

I read with serious concern a recent statement by the Society For The Prevention of Cruelty To Animals (SPCA) pointing out to alleged cruelty to animals by municipal and contracted dog-catchers in the Subang Jaya and Shah Alam areas.

It had been alleged that dog-catchers trespassed into private homes and dragged the dogs out of the homes and in the process inflicted serious injuries on the animals.

Such inhumane actions and cruelty to the animals, even if they are not licenced, is highly deplorable and should be thoroughly investigated.

The other issue which is of utmost concern is that these overzealous dog-catchers have no legal right or authority to trespass into private homes just because they detect a dog without licence.

Is it because these contracted dog-catchers are given too attractive monetary incentives that they use all available means even if unlawful to nab these dogs by hook or by cook.

The Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) cannot be unconcerned about the various allegations on cruelty to animals.

It should step in and put a stop to all such inhumane treatment to the animals by the municipal and contracted dog-catchers.

As has been appointed out by the SPCA, DVS has issued its Humane Management of Stray Animals Guidelines to all municipal councils in Malaysia. The basis of the guidelines are the Five Freedoms for Animals, and cover aspects like catching, transportation, housing and euthanasia.

We hope that all municipals will adopt these guidelines, to ensure that all animals under their care will be treated with kindness and compassion.