Forum: Adopt compassionate animal welfare practices

Like many others, I was troubled by the recent footage showing the capture of three free-roaming dogs at Seletar West (

‘Reasonable force’ used to catch dogs at Seletar West farm after 4 biting incidents: National Parks Board

, Nov 17).

As someone who works in healthcare, I am familiar with how fear and stress affect behaviour. This is why the footage concerned me, and why I believe that how we treat vulnerable animals reflects the values we uphold as a society.

Dr Anna Wong of the Animal and Veterinary Service was reported as stating that the trapping “was achieved with reasonable force” and that the use of restraining poles was “in line with international practices”.

While catch poles are recognised in global protocols, their use is governed by strict welfare safeguards. The circulated videos – showing dogs being choked, dragged and forcibly crated – do not reflect the humane standards outlined by international guidelines.

Global animal-handling authorities such as the Australian Animal Welfare Standards emphasise that catch poles must be used only as a last resort, by trained personnel, and only for brief control. They must not be used to drag, choke, lift or suspend a dog, and handlers are expected to support the dog’s body weight and reduce fear. These safeguards exist because animals cannot speak for themselves, protest against mistreatment, or ask for fairer handling.

People may fear being bitten or chased, but a proportionate response is essential. Chasing often stems from fear or uncertainty rather than aggression, and even in bite cases, more humane approaches – such as calmer containment or controlled netting – are commonly used in developed countries.

Singapore has made progress in animal management, but this incident shows that our welfare standards still have room to evolve. Many developed countries have already adopted more humane, behaviour-informed capture methods. This is an opportunity for Singapore to move in the same direction.

Greater transparency – including clear standard operating procedures for identification, appropriate use-of-force thresholds, contractor training standards and post-capture welfare pathways – would strengthen public trust and demonstrate a commitment to modern, compassionate animal welfare practices befitting a first-world nation.

Eda Lim (Dr)