Singaporeans reminded to extend kindness to animals
One cool, windy morning an abandoned corgi mix wandered the pathways of East Coast Park alone.
It was only one of the many pets abandoned this Chinese New Year, as families seek to sweep out the old and usher in the new.
"We're expecting some abandonments during Chinese New Year,”Corinne Fong, executive director of Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals told Channel News Asia, as she noted that during spring cleaning, many pet owners figure they have had enough of their pets and dump them at the SPCA or other animal shelters.
Though the actual figures are unclear, it is estimated that a number of dogs and more than 60 cats have been abandoned this festive season.
In light of this, National Geographic Channel has taken the lead in organising one of Singapore’s largest dog-adoption drives coming next weekend. Called the Dog Whisperer Free Pet Shop, this free event will take place on the 18th and 19th of February. The Dog Whisperer is National Geographic’s highest-rated programme across all documentary channels aired locally last year.
The event will showcase 80 dogs of different breeds and sizes from four partner dog shelters, namely the Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD), Animal Lovers League (ALL), Gentle Paws and Noah’s Ark. One of its partners also includes Singapore Kindness Movement.
“One of our mandates is to inspire graciousness through simple acts of kindness. But we must remember to show kindness to animals as well because as we treat all other created beings, so will we, in the long run, be treated,” reminded William Wan, general secretary of the Singapore Kindness Movement.
Expectedly, at the top of the event’s agenda will be to educate and raise public awareness of animal welfare efforts, to champion adoption and saving lives, and most importantly to promote responsible pet ownership.
The Dog Whisperer Free Pet Shop’s Facebook site will feature a dog daily for adoption on a daily basis. Interested parties may contact the dog shelters directly, or recommend them to their friends. In addition, tips and articles on pet ownership are also shared to promote an integrated network of animal lovers, potential adopters, dog shelters, service providers for dogs. Information from National Geographic Channel’s Dog Whisperer host, Cesar Milan and other websites can also be found.
A fun day for families and friends, the public can also have their pets beautifully sketched by illustrators, photographed by professional photographers and pampered with nutritional dog treats. Dog obedience trainers and handlers will also be present to share tips with existing and potential pet owners, providing deeper insight into life with dogs.
The drive is slated to be held at Dalbergia Green (between Car park D1 and the beach) at East Coast Park from 12 noon to 6p.m.
It is an offence to abandon pets or abuse animals in Singapore. Those who abandon their pets face a fine of up to $10,000, or 12 months' jail, or both.
