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WHY do you want a dog or a cat? Is it because the puppy or kitten looks irresistibly cute? Is it because someone is giving away a free pedigree pet?

If those are your only reasons, then perhaps you should reconsider owning a pet.

A puppy or kitten is much like a young child. They are adorable when they are small, with bright eyes, playful personalities and endless energy. But, like children, they grow up. Their appearance changes, their needs change, and they require even more care and commitment.

Would you ignore your child simply because they are no longer a cute toddler? Of course not.

Sadly, many pets are treated differently.

A responsible pet owner understands that beauty is not limited to youth. Whether a pet is a pedigree or a mixed breed, young or old, healthy or disabled, every animal deserves love, care and respect throughout its life.

Growing older does not make a dog or cat any less deserving of affection. Their loyalty, companionship and unconditional love only deepen with age.

Unfortunately, many owners lose interest once the novelty of owning a cute puppy or kitten wears off. Some pets are still fed but receive little attention or affection.

Others are simply abandoned and left to fend for themselves.

Nothing could be more unfair.

Sterilisation Is Part of Responsible Ownership

One of the most preventable causes of animal abandonment is unwanted litters. Far too many puppies and kittens are abandoned simply because their owners failed to sterilise their pets. Some newborn animals are dumped only weeks after birth because their owners do not want the responsibility of caring for them or finding suitable homes.

This suffering is entirely avoidable.

Every responsible owner should arrange to have their pet spayed or neutered at the appropriate age, as advised by a veterinarian. Sterilisation prevents unwanted litters, reduces the number of abandoned animals and improves the long-term health of many pets.

If, for any reason, an owner genuinely cannot keep their pet, surrendering it to a reputable animal shelter is far more humane than abandoning it. Whenever possible, owners should also make a donation to help shelters continue caring for unwanted animals, as many rely almost entirely on public generosity.

A Pet Is Not Meant to Wander Alone

Another common problem is allowing dogs to roam freely without supervision. Besides placing the animal at risk of traffic accidents, disease, poisoning or theft, roaming dogs may also create problems for neighbours and road users.

Pet owners have both a legal and moral responsibility to ensure their animals are properly supervised.

Dogs need daily exercise, but that exercise should come in the form of regular walks with their owners – not being allowed to wander the streets alone.

Responsible ownership means investing time every day in your pet’s physical and mental well-being.

Enforcing Animal Welfare Laws

Malaysia has animal welfare legislation designed to protect animals, but laws are only effective when they are properly enforced.

Greater enforcement of existing regulations would encourage responsible pet ownership and help reduce abandonment, neglect and cruelty.

Public education is equally important. Many people simply do not realise the long-term responsibilities that come with owning a pet. Ownership is not just about enjoying a puppy or kitten during its cutest months – it is a commitment that can last 15 years or more.

Contractors Must Also Be Held Accountable

Another issue deserving greater attention is the use of dogs as security animals at construction sites.

Too often, when projects are completed, these dogs are left behind to survive on their own. Whether intentionally abandoned or simply forgotten, they become yet another addition to the growing stray population.

Contractors who choose to use animals should remain responsible for their welfare throughout the project and after it concludes. Better still, employing trained human security personnel avoids placing animals in situations where they may ultimately be neglected.

Love Your Pet for Life

A dog does not judge its owner by wealth, appearance or social status.

It asks for little more than food, care, companionship and kindness.

In return, it offers unwavering loyalty, unconditional love and a willingness to protect its family without hesitation.

That is a remarkable gift. Owning a pet is not a temporary hobby or an impulse purchase. It is a lifelong promise.

If you choose to welcome a dog or cat into your home, make that promise wholeheartedly. Care for them when they are young, continue caring for them as adults, and remain by their side as they grow old.

Today, give your dog or cat a hug. They will love you unconditionally for their entire life. They deserve nothing less.

 

• Please remember: Sterilising your pets is one of the most responsible and compassionate ways to help prevent unwanted litters and reduce animal abandonment.