THE cruel practices of Majlis Perbandaran Shah Alam (MPSA) in tackling the issue of strays should not be tolerated. It practises an immediate-kill policy.  

Unlike most local councils, it does not have its own pound. Any animal caught is put to death, often on the same day, and the carcass dumped.

Therefore, any pet caught has a zero chance of being reunited with its human companions. MPSA also engages the service of an independent contractor to catch strays.

Captured animals have been seen dragged with a tight noose around their necks, often suffocating them. Many have to endure beatings with canes or sticks.

MPSA must reconsider its policies in dealing with strays. Animal rights activists have reminded us that the neutering/spaying of pets is the only effective long-term solution.

The problem of strays must be tackled by looking at the causes, not the symptoms.

MPSA is responsible for addressing this problem through educating the public about the benefits of spaying/neutering through public service advertisements and billboards.

It must also set up more facilities or have tie-ups with animal clinics and offer rate-payers discounts or rebates for neutering their animals.