Hey, I recently came across a gruesome video exposing the horrific methods used by a local council in Malaysia (which I’d rather not name) to dispose of stray dogs. Trigger warning: It was said the dogs were abused and buried alive. Yes, buried alive—a level of cruelty that is beyond comprehension. I cried when I heard the dog’s voice. Watch it here on your own risk.
As an animal lover, this deeply disturbs me. I do my best to understand why some people dislike certain animals—some have had traumatic experiences, and I respect that. But no matter what personal fears or cultural beliefs someone holds, there is never a justification for animal abuse, let alone for exterminating them in such a barbaric manner.
One of the most common responses I hear from people defending these actions is:
“If you love animals so much, why don’t you take all the stray dogs home?”
To that, I say—really? That’s the best argument you can come up with? You were gifted with a brain, yet that’s the extent of your reasoning? How disappointing.
The Real Problem: Who Is to Blame?
Instead of deflecting responsibility, let’s ask the real question: Why are there so many strays in the first place? Let’s not sugarcoat things—the reality is, most stray animals exist because of irresponsible pet owners who abandon them.
People get dogs and cats without thinking long-term, fail to neuter or spay them, and then dump them when they become inconvenient. The result? These animals reproduce, and the cycle continues. Is that their fault? Absolutely not.
And yet, these same people—who can’t even take responsibility for the consequences of their actions—turn around and blame the animals for simply existing.
If we’re going by the logic that strays should be “put to sleep” because they multiply uncontrollably, then perhaps we should apply the same standard to humans who reproduce irresponsibly despite lacking financial stability. But of course, society wouldn’t dare say that, right?
This Isn’t Just About Dogs—Stray Cats Face the Same Fate
While this discussion often revolves around stray dogs, let’s not forget stray cats are just as vulnerable to human cruelty.
Many stray cats are poisoned, beaten, or left to suffer without food or medical care. Some people see them as a nuisance and resort to extreme measures to get rid of them. Just like dogs, they didn’t choose this life—humans created this problem by abandoning unspayed and unneutered pets.
Cats and dogs both feel pain, hunger, and fear. If you wouldn’t tolerate such cruelty towards one, why turn a blind eye to the other? Compassion should not be selective.
What Needs to Change?
Instead of resorting to cruelty, we need proper policies in place:
1. Stricter penalties for animal abandonment – Hold irresponsible pet owners accountable.
2. Effective stray population management – Implement humane neutering/spaying programs.
3. Stronger enforcement of animal welfare laws – Stop turning a blind eye to abuse.
It’s time we stop excusing inhumane acts and start advocating for real solutions. Because how we treat animals reflects who we are as a society.
Thanks for reading.