I refer to the letter dated 9 January 2004, `Microchips to track errant pet owners'. The SPCA thanks Mr Royston Ang for his concern about strays in Singapore. I would like to clarify that although the SPCA takes in unwanted pets and strays brought in by the public, we do not round up strays.

Because of the large numbers of animals we receive (over 12,000 last year), it is physically and financially impossible to board surrendered pets. The SPCA is a charitable organisation that depends on the generosity of the public and we do not receive any government funding.

There are existing laws in place to punish people who abandon their pets. But if there are no witnesses or evidence implicating those responsible, the authorities are unable to take any action.

The SPCA agrees with Mr Ang that microchipping of pets should be made compulsory. We have been implanting microchips in all our adopted dogs for some time now and suggest cat owners do the same. Owners who reclaim their lost pets from us are encouraged to let our vet implant a microchip in their animal .

There are many factors that cause people to give up their pets. Many buy animals at pet shops, farms or breeders, but do not fully understand the care, commitment or costs involved. Pet owners need to be aware that a pet is a lifetime commitment and not to be simply discarded when the novelty wears off.

On the supply side, there needs to be tighter controls over the sale of pets. The level of welfare standards in the pet industry also concerns us greatly with few pet shops having decent standards, and not enough education at the point of sale. The SPCA has an on-going education programme for students and the public. Our hope is that one day all Singaporeans will respect the rights of our fellow creatures, but that day is still a very long way off.

Deirdre Moss
Executive Officer