Public Education on Responsible Pet Ownership
Ministry of National DevelopmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the management of pet ownership in HDB estates, specifically addressing Mr Darryl David’s and Mr Seah Kian Peng’s inquiries regarding enforcement against recalcitrant owners and public education. Minister for National Development Lawrence Wong explained that the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority conducts monthly school talks, develops preschool kits, and organizes annual roadshows to promote responsibility. For nuisance issues, the Housing and Development Board provides advisory services and mediation, though persistent offenders may be required to re-home their pets with assistance from animal welfare groups. Minister for National Development Lawrence Wong stated that as a last resort, recalcitrant owners can be prosecuted in court and face fines of up to $4,000. These policies aim to ensure that pet owners remain considerate of their neighbors to maintain a harmonious living environment within high-density housing estates.
Transcript
24 Mr Darryl David asked the Minister for National Development whether the Government will take stronger action against recalcitrant residents who flout HDB rules on pets as the incessant noise and unpleasant animal smells affect the surrounding environment and residents.
25 Mr Seah Kian Peng asked the Minister for National Development in light of the high proportion of pet-related complaints that HDB receives, whether more can be done to educate pet owners about responsibility and due care of their pets.
Mr Lawrence Wong: In high-rise, high-density Singapore, and especially in our housing estates, it is important for Singaporeans to be both responsible pet owners and considerate neighbours. Pet owners are wholly responsible for ensuring that their pets are well-cared for, and that they do not adversely affect the wider living environment.
The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) has focused its efforts on raising public awareness about responsible pet ownership. For the younger generation, AVA holds two to three school talks and learning journeys every month. AVA is also developing a preschool kit for kindergarten teachers to educate their students on animal care and welfare. For the broader community, AVA conducts responsible pet ownership roadshows every year. These roadshows include interactive displays, children’s activities, competitions, talks and workshops. The most recent roadshow at Waterway Point in December 2016 attracted 12,000 attendees.
In the event that pets are causing a nuisance, Housing and Development Board (HDB) officers would advise the flat owners to take measures to stop the nuisance. Where necessary, parties concerned are also advised to attend mediation to resolve the issue amicably. In most cases, this improves the situation. For recalcitrant owners whose pets persistently cause disamenity, they may be required to re-home their pets with assistance from animal welfare groups. As a last resort, recalcitrant owners may be brought to Court, where, upon conviction, they can be fined up to $4,000.