I REFER to your report, “RM100 fine for dog abuse” (The Star, Oct 18). 

I think it is shameful that the Animal Ordinance 1953 Act only provides for a fine of up to RM200. Perhaps in 1953, RM200 might have been a large enough sum to deter such abuse.  

In 2005, such an amount is insufficient and highly ineffective in protecting animals from abuse by owners. 

Compare this to Scotland’s new Animal Health and Welfare Bill that provides for a £5,000 to £20,000 fine and a maximum jail sentence of six months to a year. 

The UK’s Protection of Animals Act provides a maximum penalty of six months imprisonment and/or £5,000 fine, while in 15 states in the United States, courts can order defendants to undergo psychiatric counseling or anger-management training. 

Nationwide in the US, animal-abuse fines range between US$3,000 and US$5,000. Maximum prison sentences average between four and five years. Louisiana offenders face up to 10 years in prison.  

On one hand, our local Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is doing a fair job in bringing animal abusers to justice. 

However, much more can be done, and  the  first  step  is   to

ensure effective legislation to enable the SPCA to do its job to prevent cruelty to animals.  

It is high time the Animal Ordinance Act is amended to reflect the true value our pets today.    

JASMIN AMIRUL GHANI 
Petaling Jaya, Selangor