Managing the pet shop industry and controlling the problem of stray animals require a multi-pronged approach that includes regulatory action, education, sterilisation and culling.

Procedures to buy a pet

2 The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) licenses pet shops to ensure that animal welfare standards are met. Potential pet shop owners undergo stringent evaluation by AVA before they are issued a licence. AVA also requires pet shops to educate customers on pet care and promote responsible pet ownership.

3 To raise the standard of pet shops, AVA will be starting a grading programme for pet shops this year. Besides being graded on compliance with licence conditions, pet shops will be urged to adopt best practices that promote responsible pet ownership.

4 Member suggested that the sale of pets be limited. Pet shops are currently restricted in the types and number of pets they can display for sale at any one time, depending on factors such as the experience of the shop licensee and the size of shop. Limiting the sale of pets could lead to over-regulation of the industry and may not be effective in curbing pet abandonment. A more effective long-term solution is public education.

Public education

5 Buying a pet on impulse and the lack of knowledge on the care of pets are the main reasons for pet abandonment. To tackle the issue, public education on responsible pet ownership is imperative.

6 AVA has been reaching out to students to inculcate responsible pet ownership through talks at schools. The ongoing Responsible Pet Ownership Public Education Programme urges members of the public to consider carefully before getting a pet, bearing in mind the life-long commitment required.

Conclusion

7 Many animal welfare groups have also raised concerns on the treatment of stray animals. We recognise their concerns but we have to strike a balance, as there are also others who are not so tolerant of nuisance created by animals. Sustained public education will be needed to inculcate responsible pet ownership and for the public in general to appreciate pets in their midst. To achieve this aim, all interest groups must continue to work together.

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