Please do not email emergency cases to the SPCA. To ensure urgent attention, please call 6287 5355.

The SPCA investigated 876 cases of alleged abuse in 2007. Many of the complaints related to dogs being confined. Pictured here are some of the cases that SPCA has had to investigate in response to reports by concerned members of the public.

 
 
 
 
 
 
The Husky and Golden Retriever pictured just above, hardly have space to move – they are tied up on a balcony surrounded by faeces. There are certain criteria that need to be met in order to keep animals in a healthy condition. Using this case as an example, there are many changes that need to be made to create a healthy living environment for the dogs.

  • A balcony is not a suitable place to leave a dog long term. The space here is too small for two dogs to walk around, and there is also the issue of them being tied up with short leashes. The dogs are also exposed to environmental hazards such as sun and rain, which can lead either to heat stroke or flu.
  • Hygiene is also important to protect animals from diseases. Faeces on the floor need to be removed as soon as possible. If they are left too long, flies will soon come, exposing the dogs to a contaminated environment.
  • Plenty of fresh water needs to be available all day for a dog to drink. If a dog is on a leash, it is the owner’s responsibility to provide the fresh water in a bowl. (Please note that the SPCA does not approve of water bottles as this method is not good enough for a dog to consume sufficient water).
  • The Husky in the picture is wearing a choker chain which is attached to the leash. It may cause the dog to choke himself while he is playing with the other dog, so it should never be used to tie a dog up (the SPCA has attended to cases where dogs have choked to death on a choke chain whilst being tied up).
  • The SPCA gives advice to these dog owners, stressing the importance of providing freedom of movement and adequate socialisation for their animals. Dogs that are constantly confined or tied up on a daily basis not only face physical restrictions, but can develop psychological problems as well. Imagine if we were subjected to such conditions – What would the effects be?

    Although there are no laws in Singapore that relate specifically to the constant caging or tying up of dogs, no dog should ever be subjected to such unfair and isolating treatment.
    The SPCA will investigate reports of such cases and, if necessary, will refer them to the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority for further action.

    If you observe an act of animal abuse, whether deliberate or unintentional, don’t just walk away. Call the SPCA and we will send our Inspector to investigate.

    Help the SPCA help the animals. Express your disapproval. Animal abuse is not just socially unacceptable – it reflects a lack of respect for life itself.

    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.
     
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