Dog owner loses appeal over pet’s death during MBPP raid

In a recent court ruling, a dog owner in Penang has been denied compensation for the death of his 15-year-old pet, "Butcho," during a stray dog operation conducted by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP). The High Court dismissed K Chendeladevan's appeal, ruling that the MBPP was authorized to seize the dog, which was found unlicensed and uncollared on a public beach.

Justice Wendy Ooi upheld the sessions court's decision, stating that Butcho had died of old age and natural causes, not due to excessive tranquilliser dosage or rough handling by MBPP officers. The court also dismissed the owner's claim that the MBPP owed him a duty of care during the seizure, finding it unreasonable to expect local authorities to verify ownership of every uncollared and unlicensed dog before taking enforcement action.

The judge noted that MBPP had received complaints about stray dogs in the area, prompting the operation, and agreed that the tranquilliser dose administered was within a safe range. The owner failed to renew Butcho's licence and registration badge for several years before the seizure.