Perak's 'Pawsitive Initiative' could be national model for stray animal management

IPOH: The Perak government's sustainable approach under its "Perak Pawsitive Initiative" should serve as a national model for managing stray animal populations.

Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin said the integrated effort addresses animal welfare while resolving public safety, veterinary health and community harmony concerns.

"Recently, I received a courtesy visit from Perak Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Sandrea Ng Shy Ching, accompanied by a delegation from the Perak Pawsitive Initiative. They presented the efforts and approaches currently being implemented in Perak to address the issue of stray dogs and cats.

"The efforts and initiatives, which began in 2024, have successfully fostered strategic collaborations among various stakeholders," he said in a statement today.

Chan welcomed the state government's plans to strengthen its legal and enforcement framework, including enacting bylaws, mandating microchipping for pet dogs and constructing stray animal shelters.

"In my view, such an approach is crucial because the issue of stray animals is not merely about animal management; it also impacts public safety, veterinary health, animal welfare, and community harmony," he said.

He noted that continuous coordination between federal and state governments is vital to ensure initiatives move in tandem towards a clear objective.

This includes aligning policies, guidelines, veterinary technical aspects and population management strategies through close cooperation with the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) at both levels.

Chan said the initiative has conducted 13 neutering sessions statewide, covering 1,355 dogs and 1,047 cats, alongside issuing 1,303 dog licenses.

"This approach involves collaboration between NGOs, veterinary clinics, local authorities in Perak, and the Perak Department of Veterinary Services, with the long-term goal of achieving a 'Zero Stray' status gradually and sustainably," he said.

The next programme is scheduled for Oct 17 and 18 at the Teluk Intan Municipal Council Rest House Hall, offering subsidised neutering, licence applications and renewals, as well as free health check-ups and vaccinations.