Friday November 30, 2012

Ministry drafting Bill to protect stray animals

PET owners should care for their animals well and realise it is a huge responsibility owning dogs and cats, said Deputy Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry Minister Datuk Chua Tee Yong.

“We are drafting the Animal Welfare Bill to protect animals, including strays, and prevent abuse.

“Sometimes a dog or a cat that is old, is chased out of the house and abandoned because of the huge medical bills or because the owners are just not interested anymore.

“We will work with non-governmental organisations to help raise awareness that owning a pet comes with a big responsibility,” he said during the committee stage of the debate on the Animals (Amendment) Bill.

During the debate, several MPs had asked what could be done to protect strays and possible incentives to those who rescued them.

Chua encouraged non-govermental organisations to work with the ministry and help gather evidence against perpretrators to ensure they are charged in court.

The Animal Welfare Bill, he added, would also include provisions for action to be taken against those who shoot cats or dogs.

News

Friday November 30, 2012

Ministry drafting Bill to protect stray animals