PIPI, a deserted dog that suffered from an incurable disease, was administered euthanasia recently in a pet hospital in Shantou, Guangdong Province, the Guangzhou Daily reported yesterday.

Such a practice was not rare in Shantou.

Wu Xule, director of Shantou¡¯s cat lovers¡¯ association, said euthanasia for animals should be encouraged. Animals had the same right to die with dignity as human beings did, he said.

Cai Xiao, a doctor with a pet hospital, said he usually suggested euthanasia be administered on animals suffering from an incurable condition.

Euthanasia had been carried out on over 20 animals in his hospital, according to Cai.

However, experts said that euthanasia for animals faces a lack of legal support. In addition, disposal of dead animals is a problem. Some owners leave them in dustbins, bury them, or just immerse them in water, and this might spread diseases such as rabies.

Editor: Yan