‘Address animal cruelty at all levels of society’

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IN SUPPORT OF ANIMAL RIGHTS: Ting (fourth left) flanked by ‘Zero Strays’ committee members and sponsors during the association’s dinner cum installation ceremony at a leading hotel here on Tuesday.

MIRI: The issue of animal cruelty must be addressed at all levels of society in order to create better awareness among the people.

Speaking at the Fun-D Night cum installation ceremony of ‘Zero Strays’ here on Tuesday, political secretary to Minister of Energy, Green Technology and Water Datuk Sebastian Ting called upon all members of society here to work closely with the newly founded association ‘Zero Strays’ in turning this resort city into a vibrant, animal-friendly one.

“The issue of animal cruelty and abuse especially towards stray animals must be addressed with a sense of urgency by local authorities and animals lovers.

“Having said so, this effort will not be fruitful should there be no cooperation from members of the public, including our younger generation,” Ting said.

Ting also urged pet owners to get their animals spayed or neutered to prevent unwanted and accidental pregnancies.

“Spaying and neutering make a big difference. Just one female dog and her offspring can produce 67,000 puppies in six years.

Likewise, a female cat and her offspring can produce an incredible 370,000 kittens in seven years,” he noted.

On another note, Ting said the government’s initiatives and efforts by all associations to protect animal rights here should be applauded and encouraged to continue doing so.

“The Animal Act 1953 which has been amended and approved as well as appended with guidelines concerning pets is one of the government’s greatest initiatives in helping to curb animal abuse.

“In addition, it also helps to provide for animal welfare and helps address some of the serious concerns that have
been brought up by numerous non-governmental organisations which are campaigning actively to make positive changes for the welfare of animals,” he added.