SPCA Investigates 915 Animal Cruelty and Welfare Cases in 2023, Highest in Over a Decade

SINGAPORE — In 2023, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) investigated a record 915 cases of animal cruelty and welfare issues, marking an 11-year high and a 79% increase from 2022. According to SPCA’s report, 357 of these cases involved abuse or cruelty, while the remaining 558 cases involved welfare neglect, with many animals suffering from inadequate living conditions.

Breakdown of Cases
The SPCA noted a concerning rise in cases involving young people and pet businesses, including incidents like overcrowded conditions for ponies at a Geylang Serai bazaar and a dog trainer at K9 Connection being charged with animal cruelty for repeatedly hitting a dog.

The SPCA also highlighted 30 hoarding cases involving about 480 animals, as well as 137 abandonment cases involving 285 animals, many of which were small pets like hamsters and rabbits. In one instance, 17 guinea pigs were abandoned in food delivery bags along Sungei Tengah Road.

The association also raised awareness about “High Rise Syndrome,” where it receives weekly reports of animals falling from windows or balconies due to a lack of safety measures.

Appeal to the Public
The SPCA emphasized that these reported cases may only scratch the surface, urging the public to speak up against animal cruelty. The organization relies on witnesses and evidence to support investigations, as it lacks enforcement power.

“We cannot do this alone. Be a voice for the voiceless,” SPCA urged. Those aware of animal abuse or neglect can report it via the SPCA hotline at 6287 5355 ext. 9 or online at www.spca.org.sg/report.