STAR METRO JAN 16, 2004

A day out for the dogs
By CHIN MUI YOON
Photos by SIA HONG KIAU

OVER 500 canines from the Klang Valley enjoyed a dogs’ day out over the weekend during the Puppycom/Purina Malaysia K9 Day.

From early morning, the Bandar Utama Central Park became a watering-hole for dogs of all breeds, shapes and sizes.

Malaysian dog and puppy web portal puppy.com.my organised the event to honour dogs in the local community. The event will be held on the second Sunday of every January.

“Our purpose is to promote public awareness of a dog’s capabilities, such as in obedience training, drug detection, crowd control and defence, protection and agility,” said Puppycom general manager Khoo Boo Gee.

“It also provides an opportunity for communities to learn about the importance of responsible dog ownership and the rewards of a human-canine relationship.”

Guest of honour Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ong Tee Keat said dog owners needed to inculcate comprehensive values in pet ownership.

”I have encountered numerous complaints regarding pet keeping. The way people abandon their pets after some time is deplorable.

“These acts of irresponsibility have furthered burdened organisations like SPCA and PAWS that are grappling with problems in funding, supplies and space to abandoned animals,” said Ong.

“Whether we like it or not, we also need to practise good neighbourliness when we keep pets. We have to be sensitive to our neighbours’ feelings,” he added.

Among the day’s activities were many fun games for the dogs, a Malaysia Dog Beauty Pageant, Mr and Miss Photogenic of the Year, Puppy-thon, canine care products exhibition, and contests such as the Best Dressed and Most Intelligent Dog.

A meet-the-breed session enabled dog owners to display their pets and help potential dog owners with their queries.

Several Labradors, Retrievers and hyperactive Jack Russells also took the opportunity to enjoy a cool dip in the lake as a welcome respite from the searing heat.

Some came dressed in the most amusing manner such as wearing a pink floral cape, fur and feathers. A Chow-Chow even sported a pair of blue sunshades.



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