Republished from SPCA Bulletin October 2009 issue

From December 2008 to July 2009, the SPCA received eight complaints against one pet farm at Pasir Ris Farmway. All complaints were similar in nature although reported by different sources - puppies sold at the farm were cramped in cages (up to six per cage); the ventilation was allegedly poor and the living conditions dirty. The case was referred to AVA to investigate.

On our part, we made an unannounced visit to the farm on 5 July. Upon entry, there was a strong stench of faeces and urine which could also indicate poor ventilation. Puppies of various breeds were kept in cages. Three tiers of cages were stacked on top of each other. We observed the following:
1. There was general overcrowding of the display cages. Puppies were kept in small cages, regardless of breed, from two to five per cage. In one cage for example, there were four Golden Retriever puppies (estimated size was 3ft x 2ft and puppies were about three months old).
2. All cages had wire flooring and no proper base for the puppies to rest on.
3. Faeces and urine were not promptly cleared.

It is not known where the puppies are kept after hours or whether they are given sufficient exercise.

In an email correspondence dated 23 April, the AVA mentioned that it would ensure that pet farms comply with its conditions for dog breeding and boarding.

On 13 July, we emailed the AVA regarding the conditions in which the puppies were kept whilst stating in detail the conditions that were contravened. The AVA explained that investigations were still ongoing.

Emaciated dogs at breeding kennel
On 28 July, a report of another breeder keeping dogs in a neglected state at Pasir Ris Farmway was received - this time it involved animals which appeared to be emaciated, severely neglected and in need of medical attention. We referred the case to the AVA on 29 July.

Shortly after AVA's inspection of the premises, the breeder gave away the animals (reportedly between 60 and 70). AVA will be conducting further follow-ups.

SPCA subsequently learnt that some of the dogs that were given away were observed to be neglected in terms of physical health care, animal welfare, nutrition, grooming and possible unsatisfactory housing conditions.

On 13 August, SPCA wrote to the AVA to recommend prosecution for the owner of the breeding kennel on the grounds of cruelty to the animals - through extreme neglect and poor living conditions. We also recommended that breeders who have no regard for animal welfare, should be banned from operating.

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you witness poor conditions on a pet farm or pet shop, please call the SPCA at 62857355 or call the AVA at 6471 9996. We need you to be the voices for the animals. Only when more people speak up can standards improve.

Cruelty to animals is a crime
In Singapore, cruelty to animals is a crime. Under the Animals and Birds Act, anyone who is found guilty of such an offence including abandonment of any animal, can be imprisoned for up to 12 months, fined up to $10,000, or both.