Penang DVS: No clear offence under Animal Welfare Act for owner failing to stop dog fight

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 1 — The Penang Veterinary Services Department (DVS) has stated that the Animal Welfare Act 2015 does not clearly criminalize a dog owner's failure to intervene during dog fights. The DVS released this statement following an investigation into a viral video showing a dog attacking a smaller stray in Tanjung Bungah.

According to the DVS, there is no specific provision in the Animal Welfare Act that criminalizes an owner's inaction during an animal fight or their failure to stop such a fight. However, the department emphasized that action could still be taken under Section 8 of the Minor Offences Act 1955 if there is evidence that someone encouraged or prompted an animal to attack, alarm, or frighten another person or animal.

The department advised the public to report such incidents to the police for investigation under the relevant laws. This clarification came about after the viral footage of a licensed mixed-breed dog repeatedly biting a smaller white stray, named Tim, while its owner appeared to hold its leash.