SPCA says almost three times more pets abandoned in Singapore in 2023 compared to 2022; animal cruelty probes at 11-year high
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said it saw an 'alarming' 285 abandonment cases last year, with half being small animals.
SINGAPORE — Singapore has witnessed an "alarming increase" in pet abandonment cases in 2023, according to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), which released its annual report on animal cruelty and welfare on Tuesday (30 Jan).
The SPCA said it attended to abandonment cases involving 285 animals in 2023, marking nearly three times compared to the previous year's figure of 96. Among the abandoned pets, half were small animals like hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, and terrapins.
In a Facebook post, SPCA highlighted instances such as 17 guinea pigs discovered inside two thermal GrabFood bags and hamsters left without food or water at a void deck.
Meanwhile, cats were the most abandoned, making up 45 per cent of total cases, while dogs comprised 5 per cent of the cases handled by SPCA.
Spike in animal cruelty investigations hits an 11-year high
The organisation's report further revealed a 79 per cent increase in investigations related to animal cruelty, welfare, and neglect in 2023, making it the highest in 11 years.
Of the 915 cases investigated, 558 were linked to welfare and neglect, while 137 were abandonment cases.
There were also 30 instances of hoarding involving approximately 480 animals and 31 cases of abuse related to pet businesses. For example, Gallop Stable's pony rides at the bazaar raised welfare concerns due to hot and crowded conditions.
Under the Animal and Birds Act, individuals found guilty of animal cruelty can face imprisonment for up to 18 months, a fine of up to S$15,000, or both.
Repeat offenders may be subjected to a jail term of up to three years, a fine of up to S$30,000, or both, with the severity potentially heightened if the offender is employed in an animal-related business.
While the SPCA lacks enforcement powers under the Animals and Birds Act, it refers serious cases to the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) or the police.
The SPCA also called on the public to report cases of animal cruelty and abandonment, saying, "We play a critical role in the fight against animal cruelty by gathering credible witnesses and evidence, providing guidance on animal welfare issues and providing investigative support."
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