Over 70 pet owners brought their pets for free health checks at Jurong Spring Community Club on Saturday morning.

There were five stations, including an educational booth and several consultation stations. Private vets from five clinics in the Jurong area were roped in to help conduct clinical examination and microchipping of pets. Twenty veterinary technology students from Temasek Polytechnic also helped out at the different booths at the event.

The session is the first in a series of free pet health checks organised by the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) in partnership with private veterinarians, to educate pet owners on the importance of routine veterinary care and preventive pet care. There will be more sessions coming up for pet owners at other locations.

Minister of State for National Development Desmond Lee, who was guest of honour at the event was given a tour of the booths. Said Mr Lee, who is also adviser to grassroots organisations in Jurong: "With the growing number of pets in Singapore, it is vital for pet owners to recognise the importance of regular veterinary care for their pets... This initiative is a useful platform to educate pet owners, promote responsible pet ownership, and foster good understanding between AVA, private veterinarians, and the community."

Ms Ganesan Mahalatchimi, 49, a civil servant, was one of those who brought her dog, Simba, a Japanese spitz, for the health check. "Usually we consult the vet only when the condition of our pets is deteriorating. But it's good to bring pets for regular check ups because you never know what goes on inside," said the Jurong resident who got her dog microchipped and also applied for a licence.

"It was also nice to meet other pet owners in the community and share tips on how to groom and train our puppies," she added.