Singapore rolls out new codes to raise animal welfare

Singapore's Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) has issued a new code on Thursday, which sets up standards and practices for pet businesses in a bid to further raise the standard of animal welfare in Singapore.

The new code applies to all businesses that offer pets or goods and services for pets. Although failure to meet a minimum standard in the code is not an offence, it can be used to support prosecution or other enforcement actions for animal welfare cases, AVA stressed.

The code sets up numerous minimum standards and best practices for all pet businesses, which include proper management of pet businesses, practices for pet retailing, pet grooming as well as breeding. For example, pet businesses must not leave an animal without making reasonable arrangements for the care of the animal, and must also take reasonable measures to find the animal if is lost.

For certain species of pets, such as small mammals, birds and dogs from cold climate ares, it also requests businesses to comply with certain practices. For example, cold climate breeds, such as Siberian Husky and Chow Chow must be provided with a cool environment and not be subjected to unnecessary physical exertion in the heat of the day.

"The Code of Animal Welfare (for the Pet Industry) is a reflection of what the society at large desires and expects on the standard of animal welfare among pet businesses in Singapore," AVA CEO Tan Poh Hong said.

"With the code, pet businesses now have an official guideline on their responsibilities to the animals under their charge. We will continue to work closely with the pet industry, animal welfare groups and other stakeholders to enhance animal welfare standards in Singapore," she said.

The code will take effect on Oct 1. and pet businesses will be given a grace period of six months, which is until March 31, 2017 to comply. Endit