ST Forum
Oct 7, 2010
NO-KILL POLICY ON ANIMALS
Dog society's criteria for taking unwanted animals
A NO-KILL policy must be practical and consider the constraints of space, manpower, finance and other resources (Ms Fong Yuet Ming, 'Questions for no-kill animal shelters'; Sept 29).
The Action for Singapore Dogs Society adopts admission criteria which balance the urgent needs of a dog and its adoption probability. For example, a stray that is old and very ill will still be considered for admission even though the chances of adoption are slim, as the risk of death is high unless help is rendered. We also promote adoption actively, as the premise of a shelter housing a large number of animals is impractical in Singapore.
Given the land scarcity and high cost of living, the only viable and humane long-term solution is a nationwide stray sterilisation programme - sanctioned by the authorities and in collaboration with the various animal welfare groups.
Culling, which is the current measure adopted by the authorities, is only a stop-gap measure which does not achieve tangible, long-term results.
The community must also play a part in accepting adoption rather than buying from pet shops and puppy mills.
Ricky Yeo
President
Action for Singapore Dogs Society
