First trap-neuter-release programme for stray dogs on Jurong Island

First trap-neuter-release programme for stray dogs on Jurong Island

SINGAPORE - Singapore has started its first programme to trap, neuter, release and manage stray dogs on Jurong Island without having to cull them.

Minister for Law and Foreign Affairs K Shanmugam said in a Facebook post today that the pilot project is a partnership between industrial landlord JTC and Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres), together with animal welfare groups Action for Singapore Dogs and Save our Street Dogs.

Mr Shanmugam said that this is a trial project to see if culling of stray dogs can be avoided.

He also uploaded an explanation on how this programme is more beneficial than culling and states that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has found that culling street dogs is ineffective in controlling the spread of rabies.

Instead, WHO noted that mass vaccination of a significant percentage of street dogs has been proven to be a better method.

Mr Shanmugam also posted photos of the first female dog on Jurong Island under the programme.

"As seen, she (the dog) is physically healthy after neutering and being micro-chipped; and happy to be back in familiar surroundings," wrote Mr Shanmugam.

klim@sph.com.sg

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