Doggy dos and don'ts: MBPP campaign raises awareness of restricted breeds

From left, Ang, Quah and Choong with the posters of restricted dog breeds.

GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) is intensifying its efforts to raise public awareness about responsible pet ownership, with a focus on restricted dog breeds deemed dangerous.

Councillor Quah Boon Lim reminded the public that breeds such as the Akita, American Bulldog, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, Neapolitan Mastiff, and various types of Pit Bull Terriers are prohibited in Malaysia.

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"Licences will not be issued for their ownership in Penang as these breeds pose significant risks due to their genetic traits, despite training.

"Owners found violating these regulations may face fines, and non-compliance can lead to confiscation of the dogs, which will be sent to shelters," he told a press conference here on Wednesday (Sept 25).

Also present were MBPP public education sub-committee chairman Benji Ang and Independent Aid for the Protection and Welfare of Animals Penang president Choong Koon Yean.

A public awareness campaign has also been launched, featuring infographic posters to educate the community about these risks.

Ang urged condominium management bodies to display these posters.

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He said owning a pet is a privilege that comes with responsibilities to both the animal and the community.

"Dog owners should adhere to licensing laws and obtain licences for their pets at RM10 per year available via the city's online portal (ulesen.mbpp.gov.my)," he added.

Choong said potential owners should research breed characteristics to ensure a good fit with their lifestyle, warning that prohibited breeds in shelters cannot be adopted.

She lauded the MBPP's efforts to promote public safety and ensure responsible pet ownership across the community.