Source:
https://scmp.com/comment/letters/article/3008297/sad-true-hong-kong-pets-do-need-be-protected-some-owners-law Letters
Sad but true: Hong Kong pets do need to be protected from some owners by law
The scene at a “dogathon” in Hong Kong Disneyland Resort to help raise funds for the SPCA’s animal rescue and homing efforts, in February 2017. Photo: Nora Tam
I am writing in response to the proposed changes in the animal cruelty law to make pet owners take greater responsibility (“Pet owners to have ‘duty to care’ under stronger animal cruelty laws”, April 26). The urgency of such measures was highlighted by the latest case of animal abuse in the city, with dozens of dead cats and dogs discovered in a so-called shelter in Ta Kwu Ling, and many of them were believed to have died of thirst, starvation or disease.
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has long pointed out that laws against animal abuse in Hong Kong are outdated, especially with pet owners accused of terrible cruelty to the animals in their care.
People love posting glamorous photos with their pets on social media platforms such as Instagram and it would seem they treat the animals like their friends or family. However, the reality might be very different. Cases of animal abuse are far too common. Pets are not just selfie props or our slaves. If people will not take care of their pets of their own accord, it is clear we need stronger laws to ensure they do.
Fiona Chan, Lam Tin
Go beyond laws to tackle animal abuse
It was heartbreaking to read about the “animal shelter nightmare”, with 36 cats and dogs found dead at a facility in the New Territories. It is sadder still that animal cruelty is increasingly prevalent in Hong Kong. There is no denying that strong action should be taken.
I believe cases of animal cruelty occur in Hong Kong mainly because of the lenient policy on animal abuse. Increasing the penalties, up to 10 years in jail or as much as HK$2 million in fines, as proposed in the government’s consultation paper released last week, would definitely act as a deterrent.
However, apart from strengthening animal protection, policymakers must recognise that the lack of a proper task force on animal welfare and the lack of public education on the matter are part of the problem. Therefore, education through different channels, such as mass media, school visits and poster campaigns, should also be strengthened in order to raise awareness of animal rights.
Madihah Khan, Kwai Chung