No By-Laws Restricting Pets on Penang Beaches
The Penang Island mayor, Rajendran Anthony, has clarified that there are no by-laws in place to restrict pet owners from bringing their dogs to the island’s beaches. This comes after a social media user named "Munis" expressed concerns about dogs being brought to Tanjung Bungah beach, citing the potential risk of diseases being spread.
Pets Allowed on Beaches, But with Conditions
In his response to the complaint on social media, Rajendran stated that while there are no by-laws prohibiting pets on beaches, there are certain conditions that must be met. "There are no by-laws preventing pets on beaches… (but) we have by-laws prohibiting dogs in public parks. However, we can take action if a dog is not leashed and (is not) under its owner’s control," he said.
Pet Owners Must Comply with Littering and Licensing Regulations
Rajendran also warned pet owners that they must ensure they clean up after their pets and dispose of their waste properly. Failure to do so can result in a fine for littering. Additionally, pet owners must obtain a valid pet licence from the city council (MBPP), as the council can take action against stray dogs.
Public Health Concerns
The social media user, Munis, expressed concerns about the potential health risks posed by dogs on the beach, suggesting that they may "carry diseases we don’t know about". However, Rajendran did not comment specifically on this issue, instead focusing on the regulatory framework in place.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there are no by-laws prohibiting pet owners from bringing their dogs to Penang’s beaches, there are certain conditions that must be met. Pet owners must ensure they have a valid pet licence, clean up after their pets, and keep them under control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are pets allowed on Penang beaches?
A: Yes, there are no by-laws restricting pet owners from bringing their dogs to the island’s beaches.
Q: What are the conditions for owning a pet on the beach?
A: Pet owners must obtain a valid pet licence from the city council (MBPP), keep their pets leashed and under control, and clean up after them.
Q: What happens if I fail to comply with these conditions?
A: You may be fined for littering, and the city council can take action against stray dogs.