Netizens Outraged After Penang Man Filmed Dragging a Dog That was Tied to His Car While Driving

Several months ago, a video of a man allegedly hitting his husky on his apartment balcony went viral and caused an uproar amongst Malaysian animal lovers. The latest incident which has dog enthusiasts up in arms is a video of a man in Bukit Mertajam, Penang who was filmed dragging his dog along the road as he was driving his car.

However, according to The Star, the man who has since filed a report on the matter, said that his act was unintentional and has since apologised. According to a statement by Central Seberang Perai OCPD Asst Comm Helmi Aris, the man said he was alerted by a road user, who informed him that a dog was tied to the rear of his vehicle while he stopped at a traffic light in Jalan Kulim on 28 September at around 8pm.

The man, who is the registered owner of the dog, said that he quickly got down to check. He later said that he contacted his wife, who told him that his brother-in-law had tied the dog to prevent it from loitering near a neighbour's house. ACP Helmi said, “The man admitted to his carelessness and said he had no intention of abusing the dog.”

The man claimed that when he drove out to a nearby shop, he was unaware that his dog had been tied to the back of his car, which caused it to be dragged along.

Following the horrific incident, the dog which sustained leg injuries, is currently receiving treatment at a veterinary clinic for the injuries sustained in the incident. The case has also been referred to the Penang Veterinary Department for investigation under Section 29(1)E of the Animal Welfare Act 2015. According to NST, the Penang Veterinary Services Department (DVS) is investigating the incident.

Director Saira Banu Mohamed Rejab told NST, "Police have gotten in touch with our investigating officer. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has taken the dog to the veterinary clinic for treatment.”The Penang police said, "We urge the people not to make any speculations into the incident.”

However, many netizens seemed unsatisfied with the explanation, writing, “Why would you tie the dog to a car?” and “Cruelty against animals. How would the driver feel when someone dragged him this way?”

According to the Penang Hope Of Strays, the puppy’s condition is currently stable, and the main focus is to now prevent an infection.

Meanwhile, the owner has since apologised for the incident, expressed his deep regret and said that he was willing to take full responsibility and hopes to get the puppy back. At this moment, it is unclear whether or not the puppy will be eventually be returned to its owners.

WARNING: Contains graphic content. Watch the video at your own discretion here.

This breaks our hearts! We hope that the cute pup makes a speedy recovery!