SINGAPORE — The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) released its annual report on animal abuse and welfare on Tuesday (30 January), saying Singapore recorded an “alarming increase” in pet abandonment cases in 2023. Announced.
The SPCA announced it handled 285 animal abandonment cases in 2023, nearly triple the number of 96 the previous year. Half of the abandoned pets were small animals such as hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, and soft-shelled turtles.
In a Facebook post, the SPCA highlighted cases such as 17 guinea pigs found inside two GrubFood thermal bags and a hamster left without food or water on an empty deck.
Meanwhile, cats were the most commonly abandoned animal, accounting for 45% of all cases, and dogs accounted for 5% of cases handled by the SPCA.
Rapid increase in animal abuse investigations hits 11-year high
The organization's report also found that investigations related to animal abuse, welfare and neglect will increase by 79 percent in 2023, the highest in 11 years.
Of the 915 cases investigated, 558 were related to welfare or neglect, and 137 were abandonment cases.
There were also 30 cases of hoarding involving approximately 480 animals and 31 cases of abuse related to pet businesses. For example, Gallop Stable's pony rides in the bazaar raised welfare concerns due to the heat and crowded conditions.
Under the Animals and Birds Act, individuals found guilty of animal cruelty can be sentenced to up to 18 months in prison, a fine of up to S$15,000, or both.
Repeat offenders can be sentenced to up to three years' imprisonment and/or a fine of up to S$30,000, which can be increased if they are involved in an animal-related business.
The SPCA does not have enforcement powers under the Animals and Birds Act, but serious cases are referred to the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) or the police.
The SPCA also called on the public to report cases of animal abuse and abandonment, saying: “We work to investigate animal abuse and abandonment by gathering reliable witnesses and evidence, providing guidance on animal welfare issues and providing investigative support. It plays an important role in the battle.”
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