Are you planning to adopt a dog in Singapore? This heartwarming journey will fill your life with love, joy, and endless companionship.
Among the many ways to find your new four-legged companion, the one that stands out is adoption. This way, not only do you transform the life of a pet by giving them a space, but you also reap a lot of health benefits, joy, and a deeper sense of purpose.
How Can I Adopt a Dog in Singapore?
If you’re wondering how to adopt a dog in Singapore, start by exploring trusted organizations like SPCA and SOSD. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is among the most recognised, while groups like Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD), Save Our Street Dogs (SOSD), Animal Lovers League (ALL), and Causes for Animals Singapore (CAS) also provide excellent adoption opportunities.
Embracing the services of an established organisation ensures that the dog has received proper care, vaccinations, and health checks before becoming a part of your family. The adoption journey usually involves an application, interviews, and sometimes a home visit. This is specifically done to confirm that you can offer a safe and loving environment.
Adopting a Dog in Singapore: The Process
While every organisation in Singapore has its individual adoption process, all are designed to ensure the right match between dog and owner.
At SPCA, prospective adopters are required to book an appointment for adoption counselling. This entails an interview, and in some cases, all family members who will primarily be taking care of the dog may need to attend. Plus, a home visit might also be carried out to ensure the living environment is safe and suitable. Once the approval is given by the counsellor, only then can the adoption process take further steps.
SOSD also implements a fairly similar approach. Applicants are required to undergo screenings that cover lifestyle, household setup, and financial readiness. A one-week homestay is then arranged to make sure the dog adjusts well to the existing surroundings. The process of adoption is given a go-ahead after the trial stay and a home stay, with an additional fee of $300 to cover microchipping, vaccinations, sterilisation, and administration.
With ASD, the process begins once the Adoption Application Form is submitted. Photos or videos of the residence where the dog will be kept are essentially required. A two-week homestay follows, closely monitored by an adoption counsellor. If, after this period, the owners are keen to proceed further, then the Adoption Agreement needs to be signed and the adoption fee needs to be paid. For a local crossbreed, it stands at $400 and $600 for a pedigree dog.
The Singapore Special: A Resilient and Loving Companion
One of the common mixed-breeds you will often find in shelters and at the SPCA is the Singapore Special. These dogs are popular for their resilience, intelligence, and one-of-a-kind traits. Many are street dogs who have been rescued and rehabilitated, making them a wonderful choice for your home.
Adopting Retired Police Dogs in Singapore
Another special adoption option you have is retired police dogs. These canines are highly trained as they play a pivotal role in departments like narcotics detection and public safety. Bringing one home means giving an entry to a loyal, disciplined, and intelligent companion who is likely to adjust in your family rather easily.
How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Dog in Singapore?
While it primarily depends on the organisation from which you are adopting and also on the dog’s breed size, adoption fees typically range from SGD 70 to SGD 400. This fee is considerably lower in comparison to buying pets from breeders or pet shops, where prices can run into thousands.
Beyond adoption fees, be ready to spend on things like vaccinations, sterilisation, vet check-ups, and basic supplies (which can total around SGD 700). This is not all! Annual costs for food, grooming, vet visits, and insurance usually fall between SGD 1,000 and SGD 2,000, though this varies with each dog’s needs.
Health and Insurance for Your Adopted Dog
Rescue dogs are vulnerable to issues such as skin conditions, parasites, or dental problems. But with proper care, learning to read a dog’s body language and scheduling regular vet visits, they can remain healthy and happy.
That said, vet bills can quickly add up. Thus, it makes sense to enrol your furry friend in pet insurance such as Income’s Happy Trails. Covering surgeries, illnesses, and unexpected expenses, it gives both you and your dog peace of mind.
Give a Rescue Dog Their Forever Home
Adopting a dog goes way beyond merely gaining a companion. It’s a pledge you take to care for an animal in need. In return, expect joy, love, and fulfilment that only a rescue dog can bring.