Court date for husky abuse case set on August 19

The Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) said charges against the husky abuser will be formally presented in court on August 19.

DVS has completed its investigation into the abuse of a husky dog at a Kajang condominium and submitted the findings to the deputy public prosecutor.

“In response, the Department wishes to inform that the husky involved in this case is currently under DVS care and is in good and healthy condition. 

“Additionally, the Department has completed the investigation report, and the case has been referred to the Deputy Public Prosecutor,” DVS said via a statement. 

The DVS urges the public to refrain from speculating on the dog’s condition until the court addresses the case.

On July 4, the DVS announced that the investigation was being carried out under Section 29(1)(a) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015 (Act 772). 

If convicted, the offender could face a fine ranging from RM20,000 to RM100,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.

It all began when a video of a dog being repeatedly beaten by its owner surfaced on social media. 

Following the video’s circulation, independent rescuer Shima Aris intervened, removing the dog and taking it to a private veterinary clinic for an examination of its injuries.

Social media posts and photos revealed that the owner had voluntarily surrendered the dog and admitted to beating it whenever it was “naughty.” 

Subsequently, the DVS visited the clinic and took the dog into their custody, sparking online allegations that the animal was returned to its abuser.

In actuality, DVS took the dog under its wing to care for it. 

Later, the DVS issued a statement clarifying that they received an official report of the abuse on July 1 and promptly dispatched officers to the location the next day at 11 a.m. 

The department also noted that the suspect’s statement had been recorded, and the investigation papers would be forwarded to the Deputy Public Prosecutor’s office for further action.