T Puspa Rani, who filed the application in April, wants the High Court to quash the council’s decision to announce a bounty for the killing or capture of the canines.

In the action, filed through solicitors Raj & Sach, she wants all the dogs caught alive to be released into her care.

Puspa Rani, also wants a prohibitory order against the council to ensure that no campaign of this nature is launched in the future.

She also wants damages to be paid for all the injuries suffered by the dogs so that the funds could be used for their care, medical treatment and rehabilitation.

According to Puspa Rani, it was undeniable that the dogs caught would inevitably be subjected to cruel abuse, contrary to the Animal Welfare Act 2015.

“In an attempt to get more money, it is foreseeable that even pet dogs may be dognapped for the RM40,” she said.

Lawyer Rajesh Nagarajan said the purpose of the application was to prevent harm from befalling both stray and pet dogs in Cameron Highlands.

“I believe this is the first time an application of this nature has been filed against a public authority,” he added.

The High Court in Temerloh will first hear a leave application on July 14.

FMT in January reported that the local authority postponed a stray dog catching campaign following an uproar by animal lovers on Facebook.

However, a representative from the council said its decision to call off the campaign, for now, was due to the movement control order (MCO).