'Barbaric & unacceptable': Stray dog in M'sia dies after getting skinned alive

A stray dog in Malaysia has died following a surgery after it was skinned alive.

According to an Instagram post by the Malaysian Stray Animal Association (SAFM) on Mar. 26, it was first seen in Tawau, Sabah with most of its skin torn off and bloodied.

The dog also sustained major injuries to its right thigh muscle and right ankle.

Died from internal bleeding or organ failure

According to SAFM, the dog was spotted on the streets at Taman Da Hua 3 in the Malaysian state on Mar. 19.

Almost half of its dorsal skin from its body to abdomen was torn off.

A lice wound was also found in the middle of its abdomen, along with injuries to its crushed right hind thigh muscle and an open fracture on its right ankle.

The Tawau Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) later took it to a veterinary clinic for a surgery to repair and re-suture the torn skin.

SAFM said that the dog "stopped breathing" after almost three hours in surgery, and could not be revived using CPR and adrenaline injections.

It reportedly died shortly after due to internal bleeding or organ failure arising from the traumatic injuries.

"Skinning a living animal an unacceptable crime": Malaysia Animal association

Following the incident, SAFM has condemned the act of skinning the animal and called on local authorities to investigate the case.

The association has also lodged reports to the police and the Malaysia Department of Veterinary Services (DVS).

Witnesses have also been urged to come forth and provide information about the incident.

"The act of skinning a living animal is an unacceptable crime in our society and must be stopped without compromise," SAFM said.

They also called it "barbaric and unacceptable".

In Malaysia, those found guilty of such offences under the Animal Welfare Enactment 2015 may be fined up to RM100,000 (S$30,252) or jailed up to three years, or both.

Top photos via @animal.org.my/Instagram