SINGAPORE - Only a small minority of people want stray dogs, wild boars and monkeys to be culled, according to a first-of-its-kind survey of 600 Singaporeans by the Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres).

When asked about each of the animals, less than 15 per cent of the respondents wanted them to be killed.

A substantial proportion - 31 to 44 per cent - said culling should not be allowed, and slightly more - 35 to 55 per cent - were on the fence.

Acres had approached consultancy firm Millward Brown to carry out the survey in January, to better understand Singaporeans' thoughts on animal protection. The firm did so pro bono.

A group of people were sent a link to the online survey form, and the results were compiled from those who completed the survey.

Other questions polled the people on their thoughts about shark's fin consumption, penalties on the trade and possession of endangered animals and the authorities' efforts on animal protection.

Acres executive director Louis Ng said the findings were very encouraging.

"While animals continue to be culled in Singapore due to public complaints, the findings show that the complaints are from a minority of Singaporeans," he said.

"We look forward to working closely with the Government on exploring and implementing alternative long-term humane solutions that will address both public and animal protection concerns."