By S. Param
Photo: Pixabay
Dramatic issues associated with stray dog poisonings and ill-treatment appear to be hotly debated in the media lately.
The recent shooting of a friendly homeless dog named “Kopi “in Terengganu by the local council stray control unit officers has infuriated animal lovers in the country.
Animal lovers are up in arms literally for the inconsiderate killing of the stray although the authorities insisted that they had adhered to the standard operating procedures.
It’s indeed very saddening and stressful to learn of the many tragic incidents of homeless animals in our midst being subjected to barbaric cruelties including poisoning and shootings.
On behalf of the animal lovers I call upon the relevant authorities to wake up to reality and take the necessary preventive actions.
It’s apparent the increase in stray population, especially dogs and cats in the country, are posing a challenge to animal lovers and the authorities.
This issue of stray abuse and negligence should not be taken lightly by the authorities as it has the potential to ultimately tarnish the image of the country internationally.
It’s apparent there is an urgent need to review the policies with regards to stray management in the country. We need a comprehensive national policy that caters for stray management, including wildlife
Having said that, I wish to take this opportunity to call upon the Prime Minister, who is also the Finance Minister, to consider allocating special funds for voluntary organisations sheltering stray dogs and cats in the budget. Only with financial grants from the federal and state authorities can these voluntary animal welfare shelters help the authorities in the management of strays humanely.
Extra funding should also be allocated to government vet clinics to offer free or subsidised neutering services for strays under the care of animal shelters run by volunteers.
Alternatively the government can consider appointing private vet clinics to offer neutering services for homeless dogs at a government subsidised rate.
A truly progressive and humane society is one that caters for the welfare and needs of its homeless and sick animals in its environment
