BANGKOK, Oct 17 (TNA) – The controversial bill on animal torture prevention and animal welfare was discussed at a forum, held by the Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University after the prime minister had ordered the proposed bill to be reviewed.
The forum discussed about the proposed pet dogs and cats registration, which will cost the owner 450 baht fee for each pet. Those, who fail to do so, will face a fine of 25,000 baht. The effectiveness of the measure was also raised whether the registration would be able to help the animals.
The dean of faculty agreed with the pet registration to control stray dog population, which has increased continuously. However, he viewed that the registration should be free in the first year and owners of sterilized pets should not pay for more cost.
The purpose of the draft bill is to solve the problem of abandoned dogs and cats in public places. In 2017, the number of stray dogs and cats doubled to 800,000 from 350,000 in the past ten years.
It is estimated that the number could rise to two million in the next ten years and five million in 20 years. If the problem is left unsolved, it will lead to outbreaks and animal torture.
The bill is being discussed by the council of state committee and is also pending a public hearing as many people are concerned over the additional cost from the registration fee.
The deputy director general of the livestock development department Somchuan Ratanamangkalanon, confirmed that if the bill is passed, pet owners will be supported by the government to relieve their burden on vaccination and sterilization.
Academics and most people at the forum agreed that the dog and cat registration should proceed but the government must support pet owners. (TNA)
