Ifah SakinahDid you know that having a pet boasts multiple health, emotional, and social benefits? From enhancing one’s mood to reducing stress and anxiety levels and becoming an unwavering source of emotional support, all these benefits are actually backed by science. If you’re looking to get one, you might be surprised to find that there are actually many pets up for adoption in Singapore.
In 2020, 732 animals at Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) found a new home. Despite that, there is still a large number of pets in Singapore seeking a loving owner. This year, you can play a part in increasing the figure. Just be sure that you’re ready for it! That’s because keeping a pet is a lifelong commitment — it’s yours to care for fur-ever. The most important thing to bear in mind: Adopt, don’t shop!
Benefits of adopting pets in Singapore
Image credit: Christin Hume
In Singapore, there is a large number of pets looking for a new home. When you adopt, you’re actually saving the life of two loving animals instead of just one. That’s because you’re providing the pet you adopt with a new lease of life and a homeless animal somewhere with a shelter, thanks to the free space you’ve just helped to create. That’s like feeding two birds with one scone!
Adopting a pet in Singapore is an affordable option
Moreover, adopting a pet is friendly on the wallet. In case you aren’t aware, pets in stores are often sold at exorbitant prices. They can burn a hole in your pocket if you don’t have the financial means. As a result of high demand and low supply, the cost of purchasing a pet has skyrocketed in recent years. It will set you back a few thousand dollars when buying a pet in store, as compared to the few hundred dollars you have to fork out from pet adoption in Singapore.
Not all pets in animal shelters are sick
Plus, these pets up for adoption in Singapore are actually healthy, contrary to popular belief. Many Singaporeans are under the impression that pets in shelters have an underlying medical condition, hence why they’re abandoned; well, that’s not always the case. Sometimes, unforeseen situations arise whereby pet owners have to make the difficult decision of giving them up for adoption. This can be a matter of financial constraint, lack of time, and even divorce cases. No matter what, these pets are still worthy of your love!
Pets up for adoption in Singapore are well-taken care of
In addition to that, many animal shelters in Singapore hire professional veterinarians to care for the pets up for adoption. Through routine examinations, regular vaccinations, proper nourishment, the adorable critters are in tip-top condition — ready for a new home!
You can help bring an end to illegal breeding
Lastly, you can play a part in putting a stop to illegal breeding. Puppy/kitten mills, where animals are subject to shocking treatments in intensive breeding facilities that emulate factories, have been in the law’s crosshairs. With no regards to ethics, these animals are often produced en-masse with the sole purpose of selling them. That’s a harsh reality that you can put an end to!
Also read: 8 Dog-Friendly Cafes in Singapore to Visit With Your Furkid
Cute pets up for adoption in Singapore
If you’re ready for a new pet, let us introduce you to some adorable animals up for adoption in Singapore. We’re sure they’re going to get your heart racing!
1. Churros the hamster
Gender: Male
Colour: Grey white
Age: One year old
2. Almond the hamster
Gender: Male
Colour: Grey white
Age: One year old
3. Kuma the dog
Gender: Male
Colour: Black/tan
Age: Eight years old
Important note: Not HDB Approved
4. Randy the dog
Gender: Male
Colour: Brown
Age: Six years old
Important note: Not HDB Approved
5. Ah boy the dog
Gender: Male
Colour: Beige
Age: Four years old
Important note: Not HDB Approved
6. Channing the dog
Gender: Male
Colour: Brown
Age: Four years and eight months old
Important note: Not HDB Approved
7. Spotty the dog
Gender: Male
Colour: Black/white
Age: Eight years and nine months old
Important note: Not HDB Approved
8. Freda the dog
Image credit: Action for Singapore Dogs Official Website
Gender: Female
Colour: Black/tan
Age: Three years and 11 months old
Important note: HDB Approved
9. Calbee the dog
Image credit: Action for Singapore Dogs Official Website
Gender: Female
Colour: Brown
Age: Three years and 10 months old
Important note: HDB Approved
10. Simba the dog
Image credit: Action for Singapore Dogs Official Website
Gender: Male
Colour: Brown
Age: Five years and three months old
Important note: HDB Approved
Pet care tips
Image credit: Alvan Nee
If you’re a first-time pet owner, here are some duties you can expect to carry out to ensure the welfare of your companion:
- Provide them with the basic necessities of life such as shelter and food.
- Feed them nourishing and balanced meals.
- Groom them on a regular basis in order to maintain their appearance and health.
- Schedule annual checkups at a veterinary clinic.
- Pet-proof your home to provide them with a safe space.
- Clean up after them in public places.
- Work with them regularly to train them to live peacefully alongside humans.
- Teach them acceptable behaviours.
- Encourage them to socialise with other pets while introducing them to new environments.
- Shower your pets with love, care and attention.
Of course, this list is not exhaustive. Different pets require different forms of care. The above only serves as a general guideline on what you can look forward to as a pet owner.
There are also some legal considerations you need to take note of. For instance, you can’t just keep any animals as pets. Plus, not all breeds of dogs can be kept as pets in HDB flats. Make sure you’re aware of these rules in place before taking the next step. All in all, if you’re prepared, it’s going to be paw-some!
Also read: Travel Guide for Pet Owners: What to Do and Things to Note
Where to adopt a pet in Singapore
- Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)
- Action for Singapore Dogs
- Causes for Animals Singapore (CAS)
- Animal Lovers League (ALL)
- House Rabbit Society Singapore
- Cat Welfare Society
Don’t forget to share this article with all the pet lovers you know! You may be on your way to finding these cuties a new home.
