Penang DVS says encouraging or provoking a dog to attack may be an offence under the Minor Offences Act, following a viral Tanjung Bungah dog attack video.
GEORGE TOWN: The public have been urged to report to the police if they suspect or have evidence that an individual encouraged or provoked an animal to attack, following a viral incident involving a pet dog attacking a stray dog in Tanjung Bungah.
The Penang Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) said in a statement today that such reports would enable the matter to be investigated and appropriate action taken if an offence had been committed.
“The Penang DVS takes note of the complaint regarding a fight between two dogs that occurred in a public place. Following a review of the complaint and video recording submitted, the department found that the incident was a fight between animals.
“After reviewing the Animal Welfare Act 2015 (Act 772), it was found that there is no clear provision under the Act that establishes an offence against an owner for an animal fight or for failing to break up such a fight,” the statement said.
However, the Penang DVS said matters involving actions to encourage or provoke an animal to attack could fall under Section 8 of the Minor Offences Act 1955 (Act 336).
The provision states that any person who, without lawful excuse, encourages or provokes any dog or other animal to attack, alarm or frighten any person or animal may be fined as provided under the Act, according to the Penang DVS.
Therefore, if there are allegations or evidence that a person encouraged or provoked an animal to attack, members of the public are advised to lodge a polce report, it said.
“The Penang DVS takes every complaint concerning animal welfare seriously and will take action based on the facts, evidence and provisions under the Animal Welfare Act 2015,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, Penang Island City Council mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said the council received a complaint about the incident through its WhatsApp complaints channel two days ago, and checks found that the pet dog involved had a valid licence and was registered as a mixed-breed dog.
He said MBPP had captured the dog yesterday and that the council viewed the incident seriously and would take appropriate action based on the findings of the investigation and the provisions of the law.
Earlier, a video of the incident went viral on social media showing a pet dog attacking and injuring a stray dog in Tanjung Bungah. A man was seen holding the leash of the pet dog during the incident.