BUKIT MERTAJAM: Police have confirmed an incident where a man was captured on camera driving a car with a dog tied to its rear here.
Seberang Prai Tengah police chief Assistant Commissioner Helmi Aris said at 12.41am today, police received a report from the man.
Helmi said, in the report, the man alleged that while stopping at the traffic lights at Jalan Kulim, Taman Sentosa here about 8pm yesterday, he was alerted by a motorist to the dog being tied to the rear of his vehicle.
"The man immediately alighted from his car and saw the tied dog. He contacted his wife and was told that the dog was tied by his in-law to prevent the dog from loitering in the neighbour's house.
"The man admitted to negligence and said he had no intention to abuse the dog. He also apologised to the public for the incident.
"Our investigation confirmed that the man was the registered owner of the dog and that he was unaware the dog had been tied to the rear of his car when he drove out to a nearby shop, causing the dog to be dragged.
"As a result, the dog sustained leg injuries and was taken to the veterinary clinic for treatment."
Helmi said video footage of the incident had since gone viral on the Our Lovely Hometown Bukit Mertajam Facebook page.
Helmi said the case had been referred to the Penang Veterinary Department for investigation under Section 29(1)E of the Animal Welfare Act 2015.
"We urge the people not to speculate on the incident."