Animal rescue groups badly hit by economic downturn

Koun, which was hit by a vehicle, receiving treatment at the animal hospital.

PETALING JAYA: Animal rescue groups are badly hit due to the current economic downturn and many are struggling to make ends meet.

Canine welfare project Malaysian Dogs Deserve Better (MDDB) adoption coordinator Christine Lai said many people cannot afford to be philanthropic anymore.

"Some of our regular donors have lost their jobs and those running businesses do not make much profit anymore.

"Times are very hard and we are not even able to stock up on necessary items such as foodstuff for our almost 200 dogs," said Lai.

He added MDDB was currently short of kibble and was down to its few last bags.

"MDDB is literally living on a hand-to-mouth basis currently," she said.

Lai said those who want to donate kibble to MDDB can drop off their contribution at the rescue group's adoption drive at The Square, Jaya One, Jalan 13/6, Petaling Jaya Sunday (Sept 15).

Lai said those who cannot make it can also email MDDB at to get details of how kibbles can be delivered to the rescue group directly from a local manufacturer at cost price.

Lai said there will also be about a dozen puppies up for adoption at the drive which will be held from 11am to 6pm.

On another matter, Lai said more and more street dogs are getting hit by vehicles daily.

Many of these animals end up paralysed – if they do not die in the mishap.

"They are lucky if a Samaritan spots them and alerts rescue groups, otherwise, they remain on the streets with their injuries," said Lai.

She said MDDB receives at least one dog monthly which had been paralysed due to being knocked down.

"Last month we received a male dog named Julius, that had been dragging itself for month due to serious injuries to its hind legs.

"And just a few days ago we received another dog named Koun, that suffered a broken back after being knocked down by a car," said Lai.

Koun had been dragging herself on the streets for about five days until her rescue, according to the person who had been feeding her.

Koun, is currently admitted at Gasing Veterinary Hospital.

"Koun also injured her lungs and has successfully undergone surgery to repair the damage," said Lai.

She added MDDB needed help with Koun's medical bills and those who wanted to help could pay the hospital directly or drop off their contribution at the adoption drive.

"Please help us help Koun," appealed Lai.

Lai can be contacted at 0122414749 and those who want to order kibble for the MDDB rescued dogs can write to: [e-mail]