Buddhist nun receives notice from council to relocate stray dogs from temple

BUDDHIST nun Chow Khoon Siew is racing against time to save the 35 stray dogs under her care.

The 61-year-old nun, who in July received a notice from the Kuala Kangsar Municipal Council to remove the strays from her temple-cum-shelter in Sungai Siput, said enforcement officers had visited the temple again last week following another complain by her neighbours.

“I have been given until Oct 6 to relocate the dogs or risk having them seized by the council.

“This is already the third extension given to me and I think this will be the last.

“I understand that they have to carry out their duties and so, I am trying my best to find the dogs a new home,” Chow told The Star on Thursday.

It was reported on Aug 19 that the council had threatened to seize and put down the dogs following complaints by neighbours irked by their barking.

According to Chow, she had not faced any problems until five years ago when people bought up the surrounding plots of land near the temple in Taman Heawood and built their houses there.

Chow said she had been eyeing a piece of land next to the double-tracking railway project to place the dogs.

“Although the land belongs to KTM Bhd, it was occupied by a squatter family until recently.

“I was trying to negotiate the price for the piece of land with the family but things did not work out.

“Right now, my only option is to find a place to rent until I can find a permanent home for the dogs,” she said.

Those who wish to help Chow can call her at 012-454 6210.