PETALING JAYA: A video of a man killing a stray dog with a bow and arrow in broad daylight has sparked the anger of animal rights groups.
Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar (SAFM) took to social media to share the video and alleged that the man had shot down the stray during archery training.
“According to the video, the suspect had trailed the stray dog with his bow and arrow. The suspect did not waste any time to shoot down the poor dog when he got the chance,” the group said in a Facebook post.
The dog died with the arrow pierced through its face,” it added.
The group said that it does not believe that the dog attacked the suspect.
“Why would this cruel person prey on dogs as part of his archery training? Unfortunately, this is not the first time that SAFM had reported that an animal had been killed cruelly by an inhumane archer,” it added.
The group has called on witnesses to come forward with information on the perpetrator, adding that the incident is an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2015 and those found guilty can face up to three years’ jail term, or a fine of between RM20,000 and RM100,000, or both.
“Stop animal cruelty. Please do archery at an appropriate place! If you see animals being a victim to such deeds, please save the animal and put an end to such cruelty,” it said.
Independent Pet Adoption Network (IPAN) co-founder Catherine Leyow said there is no excuse for shooting down a stray.
“What sort of mentality does someone have to feel it is okay to do such a thing? I understand that some people are not comfortable with stray dogs in their area, but that doesn’t mean they should stoop to committing torturous, inhumane acts,” she said when contacted.
Leyow said that many communities organise a trap, neuter and release programme in their areas to control the dog populations, and then feed and look out for the dogs.
“Community dogs can be an asset, as they keep the population of rats and other vermin under control, and ward off burglars. Some have even been known to protect residents from attack,” she added.
Leyow said that if one does not want to deal with strays, they should not be harming them in such a way.
“Studies have shown that such vicious behaviour towards animals can indicate psychopathic tendencies, and the person will go on to commit horrendous acts against humans,” she said.
She said the perpetrator of the “horrible crime” must be found and prosecuted under the law.
