DVS urges public not to turn live chick door gifts into trend

SHAH ALAM - The Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) warned against the growing trend of using live chicks as door gifts at weddings and events, stressing that while it is not directly an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2015 (Act 772), such practices risk leading to animal neglect and cruelty.

In a statement, DVS said it does not encourage the use of live animals, particularly baby chicks, as doorgifts at weddings or events.

"DVS generally does not encourage this activity to become a trend in this country even though it is not specifically stated as an act that can be convicted as cruelty to animals," the department said.

The reminder comes after viral videos surfaced online showing wedding guests receiving brightly dyed chicks packed in transparent containers as souvenirs.

While some netizens described the practice as unique, many criticised it as inhumane.

According to DVS, the Animal Welfare Act 2015 does not contain a specific provision prohibiting the use of live animals as door gifts. However, the Act allows for prosecution if the handling of the animals involves cruelty or neglect that causes pain, suffering, stress or distress.

"There are no specific provisions stating that the act of making live animals as doorgifts or goodies is an offence.

"However, this Act provides for offences that may be prosecuted if any conduct involving animals is found to have elements of acts that can be categorised as cruelty to animals, if it causes pain, suffering, distress and stress, or if there are elements of neglect towards the welfare needs of the animals during the management of those animals, it may be convicted as an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2015 (Act 772)," the department added.

The Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) warned against the growing trend of using live chicks as door gifts at weddings and events, stressing that while it is not directly an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2015 (Act 772), such practices risk leading to animal neglect and cruelty. Photo source: Social media

DVS further clarified that dyeing chicks is not categorised as animal cruelty under Section 29 of the Act, as long as the colouring substances and methods used do not harm, injure or cause suffering to the animals.

If the process leads to death, deformity, pain, or stress, it could still be considered an offence.

DVS emphasised that animal welfare management must be prioritised in such activities.

Based on the viral video, the department noted that the chicks were kept in small transparent containers with limited space and ventilation.

"Factors such as container size, capacity, ventilation and the duration the chicks are confined must be taken into account.

"If these elements are ignored, it could amount to neglect and animal cruelty," the department said.

The agency added that it actively monitors all activities involving animals and will conduct inspections and investigations if complaints are lodged.

At present, there are no specific guidelines on using live animals as door gifts, as such practices are not supported by the department.

DVS reiterated its commitment to work with event planners and suppliers to ensure animal welfare standards are upheld.

The department welcomes organisers to seek its advice before involving animals in events.

Animal cruelty awareness campaigns are ongoing and DVS said it is ready to expand its education efforts to address current trends, including the use of chicks as door gifts.

"DVS is also prepared to provide awareness in future departmental programmes so that any party avoids making chicks as doorgifts or goodies because it is feared that it will be difficult to manage the chicks according to animal welfare standards," the department said.