Gopeng:<Text>

The review and enhancement study of the existing Dog Licensing By-Laws in Perak is anticipated to be finalized by the end of this year, as announced by Perak Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Sandrea Ng Shy Ching. Among the proposals under consideration are the introduction of varied dog license rates to incentivize owners to neuter their pets, mandatory neutering, and the implementation of microchipping for pet dogs.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sandrea Ng Shy Ching emphasized the importance of completing the review within the year to enable a swift commencement of implementation, ideally by next year. She highlighted the need for differentiated licensing rates, as most local authorities currently impose a standard fee of RM10 for dog licenses. The intent is to ensure that owners are responsible and thoroughly informed about the implications and legal responsibilities before applying for a license.

Sandrea Ng Shy Ching made t hese remarks during the closing ceremony of the Perak Pawsitive Initiative Gopeng Programme (Subsidised Cat Neutering Campaign) held at the Kampung Baru Lawan Kuda Multipurpose Hall. She assured that the proposals are being meticulously refined to ensure that their implementation is practical and does not impose undue burden on pet owners.

The issue of stray animals remains one of the top complaints received by local authorities each year, with enforcement measures alone proving insufficient to address the problem. Sandrea noted the significance of the Perak Pawsitive Initiative, marking its 10th programme with a unique approach of assembling a team of local veterinary clinics, NGOs, and veterinarians in Perak, reducing reliance on expertise from outside the state.

Since the start of the pilot project in Gopeng in 2024 until last April, the initiative has successfully neutered 1,651 dogs and cats, while issuing or renewing 1,220 dog licenses. The programme has expanded to o ther districts, including Taiping, Manjung, and Kerian, with the collaboration of local veterinary clinics and non-governmental organizations.