It looks that everybody is sitting on the fence. Where are the people who are concerned about animal welfare?

The authorities may be wrong on this one. So is the owner. The difference is that the authorities are constrained by all kind of laws and regulations. They cannot just confiscate and destroy people's 'possession' without following due process. This may take months, years and may involve the courts. The owner, on the other hand, can put an end to this animal's suffering today without going through any red tape. A simple word would be enough.