Pet shops and farms still show lack of standards

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) recently completed another undercover survey, in a follow-up to the 'Stop the Cruelty in Puppy Mills' campaign that was launched in October 2010.

The two month survey was conducted sometime between August and October 2012.

The SPCA visited 49 pet shops and farms selling dogs.

The survey results revealed that general hygiene and conditions of the animals have improved, but other prevalent issues such as mandatory licensing and providing correct and proper pet care advice are seriously lacking.

In relation to application of dog licences, there has been no improvement since the second undercover survey in November last year.

77 per cent of the establishments would not help with licensing.

Nine out of 10 farms selling large breeds or non-approved HDB breeds also misinformed consumers to buy the animal without informing the authorities.

They also told customers that they could license the animal under another address, or keep the animal at home without attracting attention from the neighbours.

In addition the SPCA said no pet advice was volunteered by the majority of pet farms and pet shops to prospective buyers.

Most of the pet shops did not display any pet care information or give out any pet care leaflets, even when questioned extensively about pet care.