Take a stand against pet smuggling

The hidden but growing problem is driven by demand for certain breeds and attractive prices

- Jan Yong

You may have seen cute puppies and kittens frolicking in their cages in pet shops overseas or on social media platforms such as Facebook, Telegram and Chinese app Xiao-hongshu.

The animals are small and adorable, and cost less than what they do in Singapore. Some may also think that they would make a great gift for Christmas. When an inquiry is made, the seller says the dog can be sent over within one to two weeks.

The process seems fuss-free, but buyers may not be aware that the animals they have ordered are being smuggled into Singapore.

Many buyers also make transactions over social media without ever having visited the pet shop in person.

Pet smuggling is a hidden but growing problem globally. It is driven by demand for certain breeds, attractive prices and quick profits for sellers.

Sellers bypass the Animal and Veterinary Service’s (AVS) strict requirements and hide animals in modified vehicles to escape detection at Singapore’s borders.

These animals that enter the country have a dubious health history and come from unknown sources without an AVS import licence.

Smuggled animals include kittens, puppies, rare songbirds and exotic animals.

HARSH REALITY OF ANIMAL SMUGGLING