While investigating a case in the Tucheng area on Jan. 22, the Taiwan SPCA (TSPCA) investigation team became aware of another situation in the area. While observing the residence of a dog that was brought to their attention, the team noticed that although the dog had ample living space and was on a long chain, the environment was unsanitary and covered in excrement and trash. The team decided to conduct a follow up visit.
The homeowner was not at the residence at the time TSPCA arrived so the team was only able to observe the conditions from outside. They noted that the dog was energetic and did not find anything out of the ordinary with his demeanor. Although only able to view from a distance, issues surrounding sanitation and lack of water were apparent, both violating article 5 of the Animal Protection Act. Such conditions constitute inhumane living conditions for animals. Unable to contact the homeowner, TSPCA left a note informing the owner of the unsuitable conditions and asked that the issue be addressed. After a week, the team returned but the homeowner was still not home. However, they were happy to see that the owner had indeed cleaned up the area and provided water for the dog. The dog was as energetic as before and no additional problems were noted. TSPCA is confident that the dog’s livelihood has improved with a more suitable living environment.
Most investigation cases that TSPCA conducts pertain to inadequate care, which includes medical issues, unfit living conditions, and lack of water and food. Most cases, however, are not based around intentional mistreatment, but lack of knowledge regarding proper care for their pets. TSPCA is happy that upon bringing the situation to the owner’s attention, the problems are often solved. Upon seeing an animal in unsuitable living conditions, TSPCA urges people to inform the owner of the situation before it worsens and becomes dangerous for the animal. This will allow the owner to look at the situation from the animal’s perspective and potentially change the way they care for their pet(s). If the owner is not willing to change or you face a problem when informing them, we ask you to please record or take a picture of the situation for evidence. Please then immediately inform the TSPCA and local authorities.
Animal Protection Act:
Article 5 A pet owner shall be twenty years of age or above. As for teenagers under the age of twenty years raising animals, their legal representative or legal guardian shall be the pet owner.
The pet owner is obligated to provide the animal he or she keeps with the following:
1. Adequate food, water and sufficient room for the animal to move around
2. A safe, shaded, ventilated, illuminated, warm and clean living environment
3. Necessary prevention and cure of statutory animal infectious diseases
4. Protection against vicious or unjustified disturbance, maltreatment or harm
5. Other appropriate care
Pet owners shall not abandon animals they keep, but may send the animals to animal shelters or places designated by the municipal or county (city) competent authority.
