AVS reviewing protocols after uproar over dog trapping exercise

NParks meets animal welfare groups after videos of dogs caught at farm spark concern

- Fatimah Mujibah

The Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) said it is reviewing its Trap-Neuter-Rehome/Release-Manage (TNRM) protocols with animal welfare groups following the recent uproar over the trapping of three stray dogs at a Seletar West farm.

Videos of the exercise, which was carried out by AVS' animal management contractor under the supervision of AVS staff, were posted on Instagram on Nov 14. The content of the videos sparked concern from members of the public and animal welfare groups, who questioned AVS' dog handling standards and dog management practices, and called for more humane standards to be adopted.

In response to queries by The Straits Times, Dr Anna Wong, AVS group director of community animal management, said the organisation has been working with animal welfare groups to gather feedback on their concerns.

"We have been engaging animal welfare group partners... and will continue working closely with them to refine the TNRM programme," she said on Nov 20. "This includes reviewing our joint protocols and improving our communication and coordination."

Dr Wong also reiterated that "the safety and well-being of both animals and the community remain our priority".