KUALA LUMPUR: Reports of animal abuse and neglect in Malaysia have dramatically increased, with the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) receiving 7,613 reports from 2021 to now.
"In 2021, we received 1,249 reports, while 1,580 were recorded in 2022. However, in 2023, there was a sharp increase with 2,622 complaints.
"From January to June this year, 2,162 complaints have already been received," it said in a statement.
Selangor tops the list with 3,334 complaints, followed by Kuala Lumpur with 1,113.
Johor recorded 800 cases, Penang (695), Perak (491), Negeri Sembilan (410), Kedah (280), Pahang (152), and Melaka (145). Kelantan, Perlis, Terengganu, Putrajaya, and Labuan reported only double-digit cases.
Dogs were the most reported abused animals, with 5,226 cases, followed by cats (1,900), horses (178), rabbits (157), birds (122), and cows (105). Other reported animals include exotic species (78), chickens (74), hamsters (60), goats (49), guinea pigs (42), geese (37), fish, ducks, and turtles (25 each), and snakes (20).
The department confirmed four cases of cats being thrown or dropped from high floors, with action taken on all from 2020 to May this year.
"We have also prosecuted 52 individuals, with nine sentenced to prison for animal cruelty. Additionally, fines totaling RM970,800 were imposed on 30 offenders, and four individuals were placed on good behaviour bonds," it said.
DVS has advised the public to be more responsible given the increase in animal abuse and neglect reports they have received.
"We can categorise pet owners into two groups: those who consider their pets as part of the family and ensure all their needs are met.
"But there is also a small segment of our society who are interested in having pets for fun or to follow trends.
"These people can be categorised as lacking in knowledge and experience or unable to take on the responsibility of ensuring the welfare, health, care, and attention for their pets.
"Some within this group neglect their pets if they feel the animal is no longer needed or serves no purpose to them," it said.
Since 2015, various animal welfare and legal awareness campaigns have been conducted.
A 2021 study found that 90 per cent of respondents are aware of the five basic animal needs and are willing to pay more for good animal welfare.
The animal welfare complaints portal, fully implemented on March 1, 2021, has seen a rise in complaints.