Article from Channel NewsAsia |
SINGAPORE : They are called man's best friend, but every year,
thousands of dogs suffer from neglect or abuse.
One example is Will, who was run over by a lorry, and left to
die.
But he has found hope in the form of his caregiver, who has chosen
to remain anonymous.
The caregiver, a member of Action for Singapore Dogs Society, said,
"I saw that from his eyes he had this strong will to live... He's
always a very happy dog despite his disabilities and the pain and
all the injuries he's had, and I thought if humans have a second
chance, why not the animals."
Although many stray dogs roam the streets, they aren't the only
cause of dog overpopulation.
Deirdre Moss, Executive Officer of Society for Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), said, "We get around 60-70 lost dogs
every month. Most of these are pedigree dogs."
The overwhelming demand for adorable puppies has turned dogs into
cash cows.
Jasmine is a victim of the commercial pet industry.
She was found outside a pet farm, and was probably rejected as a
breeding dog because of skin problems.
Ricky Yeo, President, Action for Singapore Dogs Society, said, "The
trend we're seeing is that people don't really bother as long as
they're cutesy and nice, and if it serves their purpose, it's fine.
But once there're problems and trouble like skin problems, injuries
and all that, they basically just want to get rid of it."
Many dogs are "dumped" at the SPCA everyday.
But not all that end up there are in poor condition.
Some got lost, and remain unclaimed.
Many got dumped after the "cute puppy" stage, because of the heavy
expense and responsibility needed for their upkeep.
Due to a lack of space and resources, the SPCA put down almost
2,000 dogs last year.
Ms Moss said, It's a matter of too many being given up everyday.
And there're not enough homes. We can't find homes fast enough. And
unfortunately not everybody can be selected for adoption as much as
they deserve to be, and we wish they could be."
The message for potential dog owners is clear.
Mr Yeo said, "The point is to think carefully. Mentally and
physically, you need to be prepared for a 10-15 year
commitment."
Ms Moss added, "Before you buy a dog, please make sure you can keep
it for the rest of its life. It's a big responsibility. It's not
unlike having a child."
So before you find out how much is that doggie in the window, ask
yourself: Are you ready for parenthood?
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Think twice before buying a pet. If u want one, go &
adopt.
Give these poor animals a good home.
