KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama): A contractor was fined RM6,000 by the Sessions Court here for beating his pet dog, a Rottweiler, with a metal spade.

Judge Manira Mohd Nor meted the sentence on the accused, Tan Shu Maw, 46, after he pleaded guilty to the charge read to him on Monday (May 6).

The court also ordered the man to serve four months' jail if he failed to settle the fine.

According to the charge, Tang was accused of viciously beating his dog at Taman Tayton View, Cheras at 9.30pm on Nov 18, 2018.

He was charged under Section 44(1) (a) of the Animals Act 1953 and could be sentenced under Section 44(1) of the same Act which provides for a fine of up to RM50,000 or jail not exceeding one year or both.

Earlier, counsel Pramjit Singh who represented the accused appealed for a minimum fine as his client regretted his act and would not commit the offence again.

“My client only wanted to discipline his pet and has not intention to hurt the dog. Besides, the animal did not suffer any injuries as it was found to (stil) have a good appetite,” he said.

Federal Territories Veterinary Services Department prosecution officer, Hasiah Musa pressed for a fitting punishment as teaching a dog required special techniques.

According to the facts of the case, a member of the public filmed the incident which showed Tang hurling his shoes at the dog and beating the Rottweiler with a spade. – Bernama