Magnum adapted very quickly to living with us. However, as he was an abandoned dog, he had anxiety issues when left alone. We are both working adults, so we did what we could to mitigate potential problems.

Things were peaceful for the first six months. Then someone made an anonymous complaint to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Magnum barked at the door - as is natural for dogs - when people passed by. This seemed to be the gist of the complaint.

The complainant apparently did not want Magnum removed but was concerned about his welfare. We were keen to speak with the complainant to know what the real problem was and find a solution. However, we were told the complainant did not want to speak with us. Our hands were tied.

Soon after that, the HDB told us an anonymous complaint had been lodged about barking from our flat. Again, the complainant's identity was protected.

We knew then we could not share our flat with Magnum any longer. It was heart-wrenching for Magnum to lose his home so soon after being abandoned.

The HDB was concerned only about ensuring that Magnum was no longer in our home. We can't help but wonder if that was how Magnum was abandoned in the first place.

As responsible pet owners, we made sure that Magnum went to a good home. But what happens to pets of irresponsible owners when HDB officials come knocking?

Ng Lay Yun (Ms)