AVA safeguards the welfare of animals and prevents animal cruelty. However, besides regulatory control, it is also important to raise Singaporeans’ awareness of their shared responsibility towards animal welfare.

In championing animal welfare, AVA proactively works with animal welfare groups and the community to educate the public on responsible pet ownership (RPO). On 27-28 September 2014, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) and AVA came together to organise an event themed “Caring for Your Pet”. Held at United Square Shopping Mall in celebration of World Animal Day (4 October 2014), the event drove home the message that RPO starts at, and revolves around, the home.

An AVA officer (right) is delighted to share information on the adoption and care of pets.

At the event, AVA created a walk-through showroom, where visitors could discover first-hand the needs of pets in different parts of the house, i.e. living room, kitchen, bedroom, etc. Pet owners can thus better appreciate how their animal companions’ daily lifestyles can be improved. This experiential learning was provided in addition to the educational posters and information booklets displayed.

Potential and current pet owners who had more questions on pet care also took the opportunity to speak to Animal Ambassadors and AVA officers on duty at the information booth. For those who were ready to bring home a (or another) pet, a number of cats, dogs, guinea pigs, hamsters and rabbits were available for adoption. To make each successful adoption a little more special and memorable, Hill’s Science Diet goody bags were provided too.