Pet Dumping Has Tripled Since The MCO Began
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Malaysian Animal Association president Arie Dwi Andika has noted that the dumping of pet animals such as cats and dogs have tripled around the city of Kuala Lumpur since the MCO started.
This information was provided by community feeders who often make sure strays have food and water, especially during this time when there is a significant reduction in human activity.
Community feeders report that they have spotted newly abandoned animals at several locations such as remote industrial and non-residential areas.
According to Arie, it’s highly likely that irresponsible pet owners chose to dump their pets at these areas to cover their tracks without caring about the welfare of the animals.
For example, an area usually has five dogs normally but yesterday, it has tripled to 18 to 20 dogs. All these dogs are friendly, in good health, clean and not aggressive.
Arie Dwi Andika to Bernama
It’s also possible that pet owners are dumping these animals over fears that the pets will spread Covid-19 or that the owners are no longer able to care for the pets after losing their source of income due to the MCO.
He goes on to question why the pet owners do not assume the responsibility of taking care of the animals, claiming that pet dumping is not a humanitarian act.
Why has the love (for their pets) faded? What is the fate of these cats and dogs who have considered the owners as their family members all this while?
Arie Dwi Andika to Bernama
He is calling on authorities to make microchip identification compulsory for all pets so that irresponsible pet dumping can be prevented, or at least traceable.
Pet owners who fail to provide proper lodging, healthcare, and diet to their pets can be charged under the Animal Welfare Act 2015 and be fined not less than RM20,000 and not more than RM100,000 or imprisoned for up to three years upon conviction.
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Anne is an advocate of sustainable living and the circular economy, and has managed to mum-nag the team into using reusable containers to tapau food. She is also a proud parent of 4 cats and 1 rabbit.