New animal welfare code for dog trainers prioritises positive reinforcement, less aversive methods

Also new to the code for pet groomers is a minimum standard that states groomers must employ safe, secure and species-appropriate restraint techniques and equipment, referring to double-arm lock restraints, Elizabethan collars, towels or safety gloves as examples.

In the revised code, groomers must be able to promptly identify signs of fear, stress, or distress in animals and take appropriate action as a minimum standard, a new addition from the original code.

The code also sets out new sections on competency and training for groomers and on client communication and records.

AVS said that licensing and accreditation of pet groomers is a separate consideration that requires careful assessment and further consultation with stakeholders.

REVIEW OF CODE OF ANIMAL WELFARE FOR PET OWNERS

The AVS will also begin its review of the code of animal welfare for pet owners in 2027 through public consultation.

It said the current code was published in 2017 and will be updated to ensure that welfare standards remain aligned with evolving global practices and Singapore’s pet ownership landscape.

The revised code will have two sections, one on the general minimum standards across all pet species, and the other will take into account the species of the pet.

The species-specific section will cover dogs, cats, birds and small mammals including rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, hamsters and chinchillas.

AVS said it will engage pet owners, veterinarians, animal groups and the wider community through public consultations, including an online survey and focus group discussions.

But good animal welfare cannot be achieved by regulation alone, said Mr Alvin Tan.

“It depends on the choices we make every day: either to buy, to adopt … how to care, how we treat our pets, who we entrust them to, how we care for animals in the community and whether we speak up when something is not right.”