21-8-2024 (HANOI) A disturbing incident of alleged animal cruelty in the popular tourist destination of Da Lat has prompted calls for legal action and raised concerns about the impact on the region’s tourism image. The case involves reports of a dog being brutally beaten in Lam Vien Square, a bustling area frequented by visitors to the picturesque city in Lam Dong Province.
The Vietnam Animal Protection Association has announced its intention to formally request that local authorities investigate and handle the matter in accordance with the law. Nguyen Tam Thanh, head of the association’s animal welfare department, expressing deep concern over the reported incident.
According to Thanh, if the allegations are substantiated, the perpetrator could face a fine of up to 3 million Vietnamese dong (approximately S$157) under current legislation. He cited Decree 14/2021/ND-CP, which outlines penalties for violations in animal husbandry, specifically noting that individuals found guilty of beating or cruelly torturing pets can be fined between 1 million and 3 million dong.
Thanh emphasised that animal welfare is protected under two primary laws in Vietnam: the 2018 Law on Animal Husbandry and the 2015 Law on Veterinary Medicine. Both pieces of legislation contain provisions related to the humane treatment of animals, reflecting growing awareness of animal welfare issues in the country.
The incident has raised alarm not only due to its immediate impact on animal welfare but also because of potential repercussions for Da Lat’s tourism industry. Thanh warned that in the digital age, such incidents can quickly go viral, tarnishing the reputation of both the province and the country as a whole.
“In some countries, individuals who mistreat animals in this manner would be prohibited from owning pets in the future,” Thanh noted, highlighting the gravity with which such offences are treated internationally.
The case has emerged at a time when public consciousness about animal welfare is on the rise in Vietnam. Social media has played a crucial role in bringing such incidents to light, often leading to widespread condemnation and calls for action.
