The Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) in Singapore witnessed a concerning surge in reported dog abuse cases in 2023, reaching 69 incidents compared to 35 the previous year, as reported by The Straits Times on Tuesday. This marks a significant increase, with the figures for 2023 alone constituting one-third of the total reported cases from 2019 to 2023, totaling 202 cases.
The specific breakdown for each year, according to The Straits Times, is as follows: 48 cases in 2019, 20 cases in 2020, 30 cases in 2021, and 35 cases in 2022. Notably, nine cases in 2023 involved dog trainers.
Aarthi Sankar, the executive director of SPCA, stressed the importance of engaging trainers who employ humane methods and avoiding physical force on animals. Her comments came in response to an Instagram video posted on January 15, allegedly showing employees at the dog training firm Xavian and Pack pushing and hitting dogs.
SPCA cautioned against trainers using tools such as shock, choke, or prong collars, urging pet owners to thoroughly research trainers and review customer feedback. Aarthi emphasized the collaborative nature of training, discouraging pet owners from hiring trainers who exclude them from the process.
In light of the video, the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) assured the public of its commitment to addressing animal cruelty. Joshua Teoh, the director of AVS, stated that they are investigating the matter. First-time offenders caught abusing animals may face charges under the Animals and Birds Act, with potential fines of up to $15,000, imprisonment for up to 18 months, or both.
Teoh highlighted the importance of the public’s role in reporting suspected cases of animal cruelty and emphasized the confidentiality of information shared with AVS. Members of the public can report cases promptly through the AVS website or by calling the Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600.
