Consider caning for people who abuse animals
EUNICE LI DAN YUE
I was shocked to read that a man killed a defenceless cat last year out of frustration that cats did not want to be near him ("Man hurls cat from sixth storey, slams it to the ground to kill it", TNP, Feb 7).
Though the defendant may have been depressed, his action was cruel and inexcusable.
The current punishment for ill-treating an animal is a fine of up to $15,000 or 18 months' imprisonment, or both. I feel this may not have a sufficient deterrent effect on abusers.
The Government should consider increasing the fine and jail term and introduce caning.
In addition to a mandatory treatment order, they should be given counselling and reformative training in the area of caring for animals which are abused and live in shelters, so they better understand the consequences of animal abuse.
Maltreatment of animals should never be tolerated.
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