The Prime Minister’s Office has called for a revision to a proposed law requiring owners of dogs and cats to register their pets in the wake of heavy criticism this week.
Government spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd said yesterday that the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives will review the THB450 (US$13) fee they hope to collect for the registration process — or even waive the fee in order to relieve people’s burden.
He noted that the bill will go through a lengthy process before it passes, and citizens’ concerns will be taken into account, Workpoint reported.
The controversy around the pet registration came this week after the cabinet announced it is in favor of collecting a THB450 fee for each pet, money that will be directed into a fund for local administrators. Violators will face fines of up to THB25,000 (US$780).
Many Thais took to social media to express outrage, saying that the fee is too expensive for local salaries, and insisting that any fees collected should be specifically used to improve animal welfare.
Others argued that pet registration is the first step to solving the country’s problem with strays, and said responsible owners should be able to afford the fee.
Related:
Pricey Pets: Law proposed for owners to register their dogs and cats or face hefty fine
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