Mixed responses, petition over Singapore couple dyeing dogs to look like pandas
Meng Jiang’s new business venture, Panda Chow Chows, has received criticism for dyeing three dogs to look like pandas (Photo: Meng Jiang/Facebook)
By: Kyle Malinda-White
A new business advertising photo opportunities with three dogs dyed to look like pandas has gotten bouquets and brickbats online, with a petition urging such commercial businesses “(not) see the light of day”.
Stock trader Anton Kreil shared a Facebook post last Friday (Jan 29) of his wife Meng Jiang’s new venture, Panda Chow Chows. The venture’s website promises an “ultimate fun photoshoot experience” with the three dogs, consisting of either a studio shoot or a location-based one.
Each dog’s fur is naturally white but parts have been dyed black to make them look like pandas.
Although the business’ website claims the black dye used on the dogs is “non-bleaching, non chemical and safe for dogs” as well as approved by the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association of Singapore, this hasn’t stopped many from criticising the move.
Kreil’s post has received over 500 comments as of press time, with some commenters calling the practice “unethical” and “cruel”. However, others have defended the businesses, saying it is “cute” to dress up pets and that the dye used is not harmful.
A petition by Mitchell Fang condemning the service claims the use of animal dye is still debatable and “the commercialisation of these animals means repeated and long-term exposure to these chemicals to maintain their appearances”.
“And in their case of being utilised to provide a service, it is called ‘exploitation”,” the petition adds.
The petition, addressed to Member of Parliament Mr Louis Ng, has received over 540 signatures as of press time. Ng is the founder of wildlife rescue group Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (ACRES) and said in an interview that he would champion animal rights in Parliament.
However, the business’ website claims the dogs are “happy” with the new dye, saying the first dog Yumi “knew something special had been done to her” and that the other dogs “had a serious case of panda envy” before getting dyed.
The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority has said it is monitoring the case “to ensure that animal welfare is not compromised”, while the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) said it is strongly against dyeing animal fur.
“Animals have natural coats and should be appreciated for what they are, rather than trying to alter them artificially. We are unaware of any law existing prohibiting the dyeing of pet’s fur,” the SPCA said in a statement.
Kreil was previously featured in the news for posting a video on Facebook showing a 98-inch television screen being hauled up by movers via the balcony of his Sentosa Cove penthouse.
