There are certain rules in Malaysia that are rarely broken because of their normalcy, unless there are of course, certain exceptions.
One of these rules are to never bring a dog to a public space, especially if the space is shared by our Muslim friends. The exception would be if the dog was a service animal.
One woman in Johor clearly didn’t get the memo as she brought her small, white dog to a Tesco in Tebrau, Johor, as showcased by the Malaysia Animal Association Facebook page.
Sikap tidak peka dan tidak sensitif pemilik anjing terhadap ketidak selesaan, kemarahan masyarakat dan orang ramai…
Posted by Persatuan Haiwan Malaysia – Malaysia Animal Association on Sunday, January 26, 2020
They wrote, “It’s because of the insensitivity of dog owners towards those who feel uncomfortable with bringing dogs to a public place that causes stray dogs to experience hatred, caused by the standpoint of ‘dog lovers’. It’s only because of the disrespecting attitude and behaviour towards the sensitivities of the society when it comes to cleanliness of public spaces and respect towards religious factors. Stray dogs become hated and victimised, due to provocation and incidents like this that are out of line.”
“Dog owners should be taught that this kind of mannerism that can bring danger to groups of stray dogs because of their stubbornness. Malaysia Animal Association has come to believe that it is time for dog owners to care for their dogs in a useful, orderly and disciplined manner and to respect the situation in order to shut the door on hatred towards stray dogs.
They need to remember that bringing pet dogs outside should be according to the rules and safety procedures for dogs. For instance, dogs should be within carriers if they are being brought out for exercise. Leashes are also required. Carrying your dog out like this may threaten the dog’s safety,” they added.
“If the owner wrongly handles the dog, she may face charges based on the Animal Welfare Act 2015 that can fine her up to RM20,000 and jail time of maximum 3 years. The dog’s safety should also be prioritised,” they ended.
We completely understand the backlash this dog owner is receiving for bringing her dog to a hypermarket, but her actions should not justify the actions of stray animal abusers. Stray dogs had nothing to do with this current situation and should not be bullied, abused, or killed because of this.
Malaysia Animal Association’s posting has since garnered over 74 shares.
What do you think about this? Let us know in the comments section.
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