Very unfortunately, we were informed too late.

The authorities were apparently doing their rounds at Ah Boy's area on 12 Sep morning. And well ... they found him 'straying' outside on the streets.


He was wearing his licence tag, but because he was 'straying', which on the AVA's set rules and regulations is a big no-no and gives them the authority to catch the dog, they did just that.

They caught Ah Boy, which is easy as he is a friendly fellow. They took him back to pound. They called his owner, the security guard, and informed him that if he wants Ah Boy back, he has to pay a fine of $400++. They also told him that if he takes Ah Boy back he has to chain Ah Boy up. If he cannot pay, he had to surrender the dog to AVA.

I'm checking with the AVA on the components of this $400++ fine cos it is higher than normal.

Ah Boy's owner, an elderly man, could not afford this $400++ fine and for whatever reasons he had, he said he wasn't thinking straight during that time, that he just knew he couldn't afford to pay, he did not call us for help till we hear the news from another fellow supporter yesterday.

So, for 'straying' outside his building, along the small area which Ah Boy calls home -- this little area in our entire island of buildings after buildings and malls after malls -- we cannot even find it within our hearts to graciously give this little tiny area to a friendly animal who has been a loyal companion to an old man. Who gave his trust to mankind with welcoming wags.

Who has a sentient life just like you and me. Who looks forward to simple joys of exploring his neighbourhood with his female companion. Of lying at the feet of his master.

For 'straying' outside his home, Ah Boy is now dead.



Very very sorry we could not get to you earlier, Ah Boy. Very very sorry.