The death of Rocky, a stray dog, during the Klang Royal City Council’s (MBDK) enforcement operation last week has sparked national outrage after videos of the incident went viral, which showed its owner pleading for mercy as it was restrained. Animal welfare groups allege that Rocky was beaten and strangled, while MBDK maintains the operation followed standard procedure and that the dog died after the owner tried to pull him free.

The owner has disputed the account and is considering legal action. The incident has since triggered protests from animal-welfare groups nationwide and reignited a broader debate about how local authorities handle stray animals. We unpack all of this with Dr Salehatul Khuzaimah, a veterinarian, and Nalina Nair, Councillor at the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ). 

Image credits: Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia - SAFM (Facebook)