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SPCA Singapore 
Dec 30, 2016 
NGOs, SPCA Singapore 
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OUR YEAR IN REVIEW ADVOCACY AND EDUCATION
We continue to raise awareness on animal welfare issues that affect all creatures great and small.
This year, we advocated for wild animals to be kept wild, where they belong. Wild animals have special needs and it is difficult to keep them healthy and alive in captivity. Despite it being illegal, wild animals are still being kept as pets in Singapore. From turtles and tortoises on the restricted list, to various lizards and snakes, sugar gliders, hedgehogs and slow lorises, these animals are smuggled into Singapore through an illicit underground trade.
During the Finding Dory phrase, we advocated against the impulse purchases of Blue Tangs that are wild caught fishes, through interviews with the media and via our social media platforms, as we were concerned that it could result in subsequent neglect or abandonment once the initial excitement worn off.
There were also reports of people seen regularly feeding wild boars in Pasir Ris. The feeders, while having good intentions, may not have been aware of the consequences of their actions, making the animals reliant on humans for food. We appealed to the public not to feed or interfere with the wild boars, as this practice can alter their behaviour, which may result in the culling of these animals by the authorities.
Earlier in the year, the Straits Times Forum published a letter from the SPCA applauding a move by Singapores Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*Star) to develop new non-animal testing methods. Animals used in research laboratories are often subjected to pain and suffering and we will continue to advocate for research funding agencies to channel more resources into projects that seek to replace, reduce or refine the use of animals in research
The SPCA also receives requests for help from pet owners who have been asked by the authorities to remove their pet due to nuisance complaints from neighbours. We investigate the authenticity of the complaint, and if the pet is well cared for. We advise the owner and complainant to try to resolve the issue if possible. If we find that there are no welfare concerns and no nuisance being caused, we write an appeal to the Housing and Development Board (HDB), or the building management for private apartments. Additionally, we also remind pet owners to be mindful of their non-pet owning neighbours, and for all pets to be sterilised, and kept indoors or under control if in a public place.
One of our greatest concern and challenge is that of the pet overpopulation in Singapore, where there are more companion animals than there are homes available. The SPCA takes in approximately 200 animals every month, including abandoned and unwanted pets. The Code of Animal Welfare for the Pet Industry was released recently and we voiced our concerns about the Codes enforceability. We hope the standards within the Code will be raised over time.
We believe that education is key in making a positive headway in animal welfare. As such, we regularly conduct talks at educational institutes, corporates, and at public events, to educate the public on animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.
You can also make a difference by speaking up for animals. If you witness any type of animal welfare issues and would like for us to investigate, please complete the form that can be found at this link http://www.spca.org.sg/services_inspectorate.asp Do follow up with photos and or video footage by emailing them to inspector@spca.org.sg as these will come in handy with the investigations.
We will continue our mission to promote kindness and to prevent cruelty to animals through education, advocacy and in action for the new year and we seek your assistance.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/spcasingapore/photos/a.283797778154..
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