As a new pet owner, I have noticed that public transport does not allow pets of any kind on any forms of public transport. This has hindered many individuals who have pets. The cost of public transport is affordable for most individuals and the systems we have in place are fantastic. However, due to the restriction, many pet owners who do not own a vehicle end up with the increased cost of transportation, by having limited means of transportation. Although there are many pet transportation services provided, the cost of a simple ride can cost about 20 dollars for a trip which can be greatly reduced, by allowing pet owners to utilise the public transport system we have in place. This will significantly benefit non-profit individuals fostering animals (transportation to and fro vet) as well as seniors who socialise in bird circles and require public transport. I do understand that there are many concerns about transporting pets on public transport, hence, I have taken some pointers from those before me, and will list out several solutions on these concerns. 

Concerns 
1) Bringing dogs onto public transport and its impact on Muslim individuals. 
2) Allergies of individuals without pets and exposure in public transport. 
3) Maintainance of pets on public transport ( urination or defecation from animals) 
4) Safety of the animals

Solutions 
1) allocating one specific cabin for pet owners to board and alight from ( first or last cabin) this allows passengers who are uncomfortable around pets to move away to other cabins. 
2) allowing pets only during off-peak hours (Before 7.30am/10am-12pm/ 2pm-6pm/ after 8 pm)
3) only allowing animals which have been safely secured in either cages or carriers (in which, pee pads are lined and disposal is the owner's responsibility) *additionally, passengers with pets are required to carry disinfecting wipes (eg kitcat wet wipes or dettol wipes) to wipe areas where salivation or where "accidents" happen. 

This issue has been a long time concern of several citizens, and as Singapore moves towards being a more inclusive society, perhaps it is time for policymakers to reevaluate the ban on secured animals on public transport. Additionally, the public transport system already allows bulky items such as strollers and foldable bikes on public transport, I believe that this change will not greatly affect the commute of Singaporeans.

Please find attached several articles in support of this movement and their arguments below. 
https://www.straitstimes.com/forum/letters-in-print/allow-pets-on-public-transport​

https://www.straitstimes.com/forum/letters-in-print/allow-small-pets-on-buses-but-only-during-off-peak-hours​

https://www.straitstimes.com/forum/letters-in-print/allow-pet-owners-to-take-small-animals-on-buses​

https://www.straitstimes.com/forum/letters-in-print/ensure-pets-are-caged-muzzled​

https://www.straitstimes.com/forum/letters-on-the-web/allow-small-pets-on-board-public-transport​

https://www.todayonline.com/voices/towards-more-inclusive-public-transport-pets

 

* An incident, where passengers encounter a pet on a harness and were okay with it. 
https://coconuts.co/singapore/news/commuters-totally-cool-passenger-who-brought-his-cat-along-mrt/

 

Warmest regards, 

Local cat owner