[2] Its principal mandates are to impel animal owners to provide appropriate care and shelter, and to stop the illegal meat trade.

Neglect includes improper housing and transportation of animals which may lead to injury and death.

There is a minor criminal code under which cruelty to animals is punishable by a maximum one month in prison and a 1,000 baht fine.

As a result, a parliamentary sub-committee was created to prepare a draft bill to address the torture and abuse of animals.

Although there is only one article in specific to cruelty and 20 exclusions from such in the law, it does implies against various forms of abuse and dog eating.

The act permits designated officials to search vehicles, homes or businesses without a warrant in urgent situations.

There were 20 specified acts of cruelty proposed by animal rights groups included in the draft bill that were not approved.

Kamdee Kotata, a 50 year-old villager in northeastern Nong Khai Province, was arrested by police officers on 5 January.