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A DOG should never be acquired simply because it is cute or because it happens to be a free pedigree. Like children, puppies grow up. Their playful antics may capture hearts in the beginning, but when the novelty fades, some owners gradually lose interest.

Sadly, many dogs end up neglected, abandoned or left to fend for themselves.

Owning a dog is a major responsibility. It is not a hobby that can be set aside when boredom sets in. A dog depends entirely on its owner for food, shelter, protection and companionship throughout its life.

Yet it is not uncommon to see pet dogs being fed leftovers rather than a proper diet. Some owners start out showering attention on a new puppy, only to leave it alone and ignored once the excitement wears off. The dog, however, remains loyal and dependent on the very people who have chosen to neglect it.

Responsible ownership begins with proper care. Dogs require nutritious food, clean water, regular exercise and veterinary treatment when they fall ill. Cutting corners on any of these essentials compromises the animal’s welfare.

Another important responsibility is sterilisation. Dogs and cats should be neutered or spayed as early as possible. Unfortunately, many owners continue to make excuses, including the common belief that a pet should be allowed to have at least one litter first.

Such thinking only contributes to the growing stray population and the suffering that follows when unwanted animals are abandoned.

Animal rescuers and feeders throughout Sabah witness the consequences every day. Many spend their own money feeding strays, arranging sterilisation programmes and paying veterinary bills for animals that were once someone’s pets.

Their efforts help reduce suffering, but they are often left to shoulder responsibilities that should never have fallen upon them in the first place.

A particularly troubling issue is the number of pet dogs allowed to roam freely. When complaints are made, local authorities may capture the animals. Yet it is often the dog that pays the price, despite having done nothing wrong. The real responsibility lies with the owner who failed to provide proper care and supervision.

This is where stronger enforcement of animal welfare laws is urgently needed. Existing legislation serves little purpose if it is not implemented effectively. Owners who neglect their animals, fail to sterilise them or allow them to wander unsupervised should be held accountable.

For years, there have been calls for stricter enforcement and greater commitment to animal welfare. Meetings and discussions alone are insufficient if they do not translate into action. The public must see that the authorities are serious about upholding animal welfare standards.

There is also a need to explore long-term solutions, including the allocation of land for properly managed shelters to accommodate abandoned and rescued animals.

Such facilities would require clear regulations and responsible management, but they could provide a safer alternative for dogs that would otherwise be left to suffer on the streets.

Sabah has the potential to become a model state for animal welfare. Achieving that goal will require cooperation between enforcement agencies, local authorities, animal welfare groups and responsible pet owners.

At the heart of the issue is a simple truth: dogs are living beings with feelings. They offer loyalty, affection and companionship without conditions. In return, they deserve care, protection and respect throughout their lives.

Pet ownership should never be a temporary commitment. It is a lifelong responsibility that begins with love and must be sustained by action.