The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) thanks Ms Dorothy Goh Tai-Li for her support of the animal welfare cause and for speaking up against animal abuse ("Kindness and cruelty towards animals"; Forum Online; Oct 6).

The incident experienced by Ms Goh, where she felt threatened by a man while on her feeding rounds, is most unfortunate. We assure her that acts of cruelty, such as an animal being intentionally kicked or seriously injured, are punishable by law.

For the law to take effect, there has to be supporting evidence and/or testimony, and a willing prosecutor.

Caregivers and feeders of stray cats, such as Ms Goh, play an important role in the community, working closely with animal welfare groups to maintain the cat population through sterilisation efforts, while ensuring the animals' well-being.

Their goodwill and volunteerism are a mark of a kind and caring society, which should be encouraged and supported.

As a community, it is important to stand united against acts of aggression or bullying towards defenceless animals or those kind folk who choose to help them.

Corinne Fong (Ms)

Executive Director

Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Singapore