Bangkok: Police warn that violating laws against pet cruelty and neglect carries severe penalties and the need to pay compensation. Police Major General Siriwat Deepo, Deputy Spokesperson of the Royal Thai Police, revealed that Police General Kittirat Phanphet, the Commissioner General of the Royal Thai Police, is concerned about the public's concerns regarding conflicts between neighbors arising from escaped pets causing disturbances and leading to violence and animal cruelty, which are criminal offenses.
According to Thai News Agency, the Royal Thai Police would like to warn the public and pet owners to reduce conflicts and prevent becoming perpetrators of illegal acts. They advise against using violence to harm or mistreat animals, as causing injury, disability, or death to animals without justifiable cause is a violation of the Animal Cruelty Prevention and Welfare Act B.E. 2557 (2014), Section 20. This offense is punishable by imprisonment for up to 2 years or a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. Additionally, if the animal has an owner, the perpetrator may be guilty of property damage under the Criminal Code, Section 358, which carries penalties of up to 3 years' imprisonment or a fine of up to 60,000 baht, or both.
The police emphasize using legal means to manage and claim damages if another person's pet bites or damages property. In such cases, individuals should report the incident to the police or local authority, who can mediate a settlement or pursue a civil lawsuit for compensation from the pet owner. The police caution against letting emotions lead to criminal actions.
Pet owners are advised to strictly supervise and control their pets, ensuring their welfare and preventing them from escaping and causing harm or nuisance to others. Neglecting to care for an animal without reasonable cause violates the Animal Cruelty Prevention and Welfare Act B.E. 2557 (2014), Section 23, and is punishable by a fine of up to 40,000 baht. Owners are also liable for civil damages if their animals harm others' life, body, or property.
The public is encouraged to report instances of animal cruelty or harm from neglected pets by filing a complaint with local police or calling the 24-hour hotline at 191 or 1599 to report illegal activities.