Council going full swing to keep roads free from stray dogs

SIBU: Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) will go full swing to ensure that all stray dogs stay off the roads, its chairman Datuk Tiong Thai King said yesterday.

He said the measures had been taken following new cases of dogs infected by rabies in Julau recently.

“To keep Sibu Division free from rabies, we have taken measures to control rabies-infected dogs from spreading the virus here,” he said when chairing a full council meeting.

Tiong said free mass vaccination is being carried out by the Veterinary Department in areas under the jurisdiction of SMC, Sibu Rural District Council (SRDC) and Kanowit District from Jan 20 to March 1.

He reminded dog owners to keep their pets within the compound of their house at all times to prevent the spread of rabies.

Videos on rabies in both English and Chinese languages had been uploaded on SMC’s website to inform the public of the disease.

“I remind dog owners to get licences to keep them at a yearly fee of RM6 per female dog and RM4 per male dog.

“Any dog, licensed or not, found roaming in public areas will be impounded,” he warned.

“The owner can claim the dog after paying a compound fee of RM25 and maintenance fee of RM100. Dogs not claimed within 48 hours will be put to sleep by the Veterinary Department.”

The public can also call 084-333411 to report the presence of stray dogs.

Separately, Tiong revealed a considerable amount of unpaid traffic compounds as of Dec 31, 2017.

He advised the public to check whether they have committed any traffic offences for which compounds are due on SMC’s website www.smc. gov.my

Tiong also said expired parking coupons can be used two years after expiry provided the year has been left unscratched.