SSPCA: Don’t dump unwanted pets

Gerard (right) blessing the animals at the SSPCA shelter.

KUCHING: The Sarawak Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) has issued a reminder to city folk that its shelter at Kota Sentosa here is not a dumping ground for unwanted pets.

SSPCA chairman Rebecca D’Cruz said the shelter was currently home to 302 animals comprising strays, pets abandoned by their owners and unwanted litters of puppies and kittens, including those dumped at markets and food centres.

She also said that abandoning of pets could increase the stray animal population in Kuching. This could lead to more incidents of human-animal conflicts and potentially the transmission of animal-related diseases to humans,” she said in a statement.

As such, SSPCA reminded pet owners to be responsible for their care.

“If you do not intend to keep any puppies or kittens, get your pet spayed or neutered. SSPCA reserves the right to refuse to accept animals from irresponsible pet owners,” it said.

Adding that it promoted responsible pet ownership, SSPCA reminded dog owners to get an annual licence for each pet dog and to walk their dog on a leash.

It also called on local councils and the Veterinary Department to regulate dog breeders and dealers, especially those operating in housing areas.

In addition, it is working to get the Animal Welfare Act 2015 adopted in Sarawak.

The Act, which is currently applicable in peninsular Malaysia and Labuan, carries heavy penalties for those found guilty of abusing or dumping animals.

Meanwhile, SSPCA has celebrated World Animal Day with a blessing for the animals at its shelter.

The blessing was conducted by Friar Gerard Victor of St Ann’s Church, Kota Padawan.

“World Animal Day is the one day of the year that embraces all animals in every country.

“It is a special opportunity to commemorate our love and respect for animals by doing something special to highlight their importance in the world,” SSPCA president Dona Wee said.

She added: “Through increased awareness and education, we can help develop a compassionate culture which feeds into legal reform and social progress to make this world a fairer place for all living creatures.”