Animal Corpses Discovered in Shut-Down Veterinary Clinic

Authorities begin investigation into neglected animals in Petaling Jaya veterinary facility

Petaling Jaya: The Selangor Veterinary Services Department (Jabatan Perkhidmatan Veterinar Selangor, DVS) has initiated a formal investigation following reports of several animal deaths at an abandoned vet clinic located in Damansara Damai, Petaling Jaya. The probe was launched after disturbing footage surfaced on social media depicting decomposing carcasses of a cat and a dog confined within cages at the premises. This incident has raised concerns regarding animal welfare standards and professional accountability within the region’s veterinary sector.

The sequence of events leading to discovery and initial responses

The case came to light when a complaint was lodged with the Selangor DVS, prompting the deployment of animal welfare officers to the clinic on a Wednesday. Upon inspection, officers found the remains of animals believed to have been deceased for approximately one to two weeks. The clinic itself appeared to be deserted, with no active operations and a shuttered shoplot devoid of any identifying signage. A notice issued by Selangor DVS was affixed to the clinic’s shutter, marking it as a subject of official inquiry. The abandonment and neglect have sparked public attention. Especially among animal welfare advocates and the veterinary community in Petaling Jaya and greater Selangor.

Official details on investigation and preliminary findings from Selangor DVS

According to Selangor DVS, the carcasses and cages have been seized for further analysis to determine the precise cause of death and any potential breaches of the Animal Welfare Act 2015. The case is being investigated under subsection 29(1)(e) of this legislation, which deals with animal neglect and cruelty. The department has stressed that the investigation will be conducted in a thorough, transparent manner without compromising fairness or favouritism. Authorities have also requested that any witnesses or individuals with pertinent information step forward to assist in the inquiry. These official statements reinforce the department’s commitment to upholding animal welfare regulations within the state of Selangor.

Public and industry reactions highlight calls for professional accountability

Responses from various stakeholders in Malaysia’s animal welfare and veterinary sectors have been evident since the incident was publicised. The Malaysia National Animal Welfare Foundation (MNAWF) criticised the neglect as a serious violation of professional ethics. Potentially damaging the reputation of veterinary practitioners. Deputy chairman Dr Amilan Sivagurunathan emphasised the importance of reviewing the professional conduct of personnel involved and advocated for mandatory protocols related to animal care transitions when veterinary clinics cease operations. Similarly, the Malaysian Small Animal Veterinary Association (MSAVA) highlighted the need for investigations grounded in evidence and conducted through established legal and regulatory channels. Meanwhile, representatives from Malaysian Dogs Deserve Better called for immediate regulatory actions. Such as suspension or revocation of licences for veterinary professionals implicated in such cases. Concerns have also been raised regarding systemic issues in the veterinary industry. Particularly the shortage of trained support personnel, prompting suggestions for structured certification and training programmes nationwide.

Investigation may influence short-term enforcement and long-term veterinary practices in Selangor

In the short term, the ongoing investigation may affect operations of veterinary clinics in Petaling Jaya and surrounding areas. Potentially leading to stricter compliance checks and enforcement of animal welfare laws. There could also be increased scrutiny on licences and business closures within the veterinary sector as authorities seek to prevent similar occurrences. Over the longer term, the incident might catalyse improvements in industry standards. Including the development of formal transition protocols for animals when clinics close, and enhanced training for veterinary nurses and technicians in Malaysia. Additionally, regulatory bodies may implement more rigorous auditing and certification processes to ensure animals in care receive appropriate treatment and supervision. Overall, the case underscores evolving expectations for veterinary professional responsibility and animal welfare in Selangor and across Malaysia.

Location: Petaling Jaya

Date: 2025-12-19