Pohang City Launches Investigation: "Poor Cleaning Conditions at Businesses"
At a pet adoption center in Pohang, Gyeongbuk, dogs with yellowed fur were spotted, raising suspicions of animal abuse. After an investigation by Pohang City, it was fortunately determined that the dogs' health condition showed no abnormalities.
Recently, several photos of dogs at a pet adoption center in Pohang were posted on an online community. Some of the dogs had white fur that had turned yellow, showing signs of neglect. The post author stated after uploading the photos, "This should not happen. I reported it because the dogs were abandoned and the phone number provided was invalid."
Netizens who saw the photos responded with various comments such as, "I can't believe such places still exist," "So pitiful. We all need to pay attention to ensure they are never euthanized," and "Irresponsible. If they were neglected, it should be severely punished as animal abuse."
Upon receiving the report, Pohang City confirmed that the facility's cleaning was poor and the dogs' fur was long and unmanaged. However, visually, the dogs' health condition was reported to be largely normal.
The operator decided to take 16 of the 28 dogs at the facility to another location for care. Pohang City planned to admit the remaining 2 dogs and 10 cats to the Pohang City Animal Protection Center. A city official stated that they would review whether the operator's actions constitute animal abuse under the Animal Protection Act and decide whether to file a police complaint.
In July last year, 50 Shih Tzus abandoned in a villa were rescued
In July of last year, 50 dogs were abandoned in a villa in Pohang, Gyeongbuk, and were rescued by Pohang City and animal protection organizations. [Image source=Daum Cafe 'Pohang City Animal Protection Center']
This is not the first time animals have been neglected and caused controversy. In July last year, the Pohang Southern Fire Station, Pohang City, and animal protection groups responded to a resident report of a strong odor and discovered 50 Shih Tzus abandoned in a villa in Donghae-myeon, Nam-gu, Pohang City. Among them, 2 had already died, and the remaining 48 were in poor condition with matted fur and inadequate care.
Meanwhile, the current 'Animal Protection Act' defines animal abuse as "acts that cause unnecessary or avoidable pain and stress to animals without justifiable reason, as well as neglecting or failing to take appropriate measures against starvation, disease, etc."
Furthermore, according to Article 97 of the Animal Protection Act, those who abuse animals to the point of death may face imprisonment of up to 3 years or a fine of up to 30 million won. Neglect is also included as animal abuse.
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