MIRI, May 20: The operation to capture five stray dogs at Taman Tunku recently was done humanely by using tranquiliser darts and carried out under strict standard operating procedures (SOP), Miri City Council (MCC) clarified today.
Last Monday, the MCC Dog Catching Unit had carried out an operation to capture unwanted stray dogs loitering at the carpark near Boulevard Trading at Taman Tunku here following complaints from the public.
MCC emphasised that the operation was conducted under the instruction of the Ministry for Local Government and Housing as part of its rabies prevention measures.
In a press statement today, MCC explained that of the five stray dogs given tranquiliser shots, one dog known as Xiao Bai managed to escape before they were removed from the streets.
“However, Xiao Bai was later found dead due to low and poor resistance towards the tranquiliser shot.
“The owner of Xiao Bai admitted that he had received a written notice earlier, informing him to get licenses for his two dogs and to keep them within his house compound,” MCC said as reported by Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS).
Committed to carrying out its duty in protecting the safety of Miri community, MCC expressed regret for the loss of life which could have been prevented.
MCC once again reminded pet owners to not only get licenses for their pet dogs but also have them vaccinated and to ensure that their dogs are kept within their house compounds.
“This is to protect themselves and family members as well as the public in the event that their dogs are infected while loitering outside,” MCC added. — DayakDaily
