Relook approach to animal-related problems

I appreciate senior writer Andy Ho's keen interest in animal welfare ("Ensuring Tammy did not die in vain"; last Friday).

His proposal for a "cooling-off period" for owners to rethink their decision to euthanise their pets is a good starting point to relook the way we tackle animal-related problems.

The present official approach of culling in response to complaints is short-sighted.

Animal welfare groups would do well to come up with programmes to better manage our fauna.

One way would be to step up education on responsible pet ownership and appreciation of our fauna.

Advertisements could be placed on social media and newspapers to raise public awareness. And campaigns could be organised to press home the point.

A zero-tolerance government approach to animal abuse, with firm enforcement and appropriate penalties for offenders, could complement public education.

Yap Swee Hoo

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