Horrific Abuse: Stray Dog in Sabah Skinned Alive, Dies After Surgery

A stray dog in Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia, died after undergoing surgery to treat severe injuries inflicted when it was skinned alive on 19 March.

The Malaysian Stray Animal Association (SAFM) has condemned the act as barbaric and unacceptable, calling for a thorough investigation into the incident.

Shocking Discovery of Brutal Animal Abuse

The case was first reported on March 26, 2025, when SAFM shared details on their Instagram about the dog’s condition. The animal was discovered on March 19, 2025, in Taman Da Hua 3, Tawau, with extensive injuries.

Almost half of its dorsal skin from body to abdomen had been torn off, leaving the animal exposed and severely traumatized.

In addition to the skinning, the dog had sustained deep cuts and a lice-infested wound on its abdomen. It also had serious injuries to its right thigh muscle, which was crushed, and a painful open fracture on its right ankle. The condition was so severe that the dog could barely move.

Efforts to Save the Dog Fail

The Tawau Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) quickly took the animal to Noki Animal Clinic & Surgery for medical intervention. A nearly three-hour-long surgery was performed to repair the torn skin and address the wounds.

However, despite the best efforts of the veterinarians, the dog stopped breathing after the procedure. Veterinarians attempted CPR and administered adrenaline injections, but they could not revive the dog. They believe internal bleeding or organ failure from the traumatic injuries caused its death.

A Call for Justice and Accountability

In response to the horrific act, SAFM has made a public demand for justice. The association is calling on local authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the matter. They have also lodged official complaints with the police and the Malaysia Department of Veterinary Services (DVS), urging witnesses to come forward with any information about the perpetrators.

SAFM described the skinning of the living animal as “an unacceptable crime in our society” and a “barbaric and unacceptable” act of cruelty. They demand justice for the perpetrators under Malaysia’s Animal Welfare Enactment 2015, which imposes fines of up to RM100,000, a prison sentence of up to three years, or both.

Public Outrage and Legal Ramifications

This case has sparked widespread outrage among animal welfare advocates and the public. The Malaysian Animal Welfare Enactment of 2015 mandates strict punishments for cruelty to animals, and this case highlights the need for more effective enforcement of such laws. As the investigation continues, SAFM and other animal rights organizations are hopeful that justice will be served.

The death of the dog has left many Malaysians in shock, not only due to the cruelty involved but also because of the disturbing nature of the abuse. The incident has raised awareness about the need for stricter regulations to prevent such cruelty from happening again.

Support for Animal Welfare Groups

In the wake of this tragic incident, animal welfare groups across the country are demanding more substantial measures to protect stray animals from violence and abuse. Organizations like SAFM are advocating for increased public awareness and stronger penalties for those who engage in animal cruelty.

This shocking act of cruelty serves as a painful reminder of the importance of safeguarding animals from harm, and the urgent need for every individual to play a part in ensuring the protection of vulnerable creatures in society.

Images Credit: animal.org.my Instagram

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