File police report if Pearl Hill dog attack was encouraged, says Penang vet dept
The Penang veterinary department has advised the public to file a police report if they believe a dog owner intentionally encouraged their pet to attack a stray at Pearl Hill. While the Animal Welfare Act does not cover owner liability in dog fights, the Minor Offences Act may apply if an animal is used to frighten or attack others.
Why it matters
Clarifies the legal boundaries of pet owner responsibility and animal welfare enforcement in Malaysia.
Screenshots of a viral video showing a man’s dog attacking a stray at Pearl Hill, and the injured animal after it was rescued.
PETALING JAYA: Those who believe the dog involved in a fight with another animal at Pearl Hill in Tanjung Bungah, Penang, was encouraged by its owner to attack should lodge a police report, the state veterinary services department said today.
The department said it had reviewed the complaint and video footage submitted and determined that the incident involved a fight between two dogs.
It said no provision under the Animal Welfare Act 2015 clearly makes owners liable for their animals’ involvement in a fight or for failing to intervene.
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