To: Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) and NParks

Subject: Implementation of Stringent Regulations to Prevent Dog Deaths in Pet Shops and Grooming Salons

We, the undersigned members of the dog-loving community in Singapore, urgently request the immediate regulation of pet shops and grooming salons to prevent further tragic deaths of our beloved dogs.

Our hearts are heavy with grief as we recall the recent and preventable deaths of two precious dogs due to negligence while under the care of groomers. The Corgi tragic death by hanging from a grooming table is the most recent and devastating case. Prior to Fendi's passing, a Maltese met a similar fate in May 2024. These incidents have shaken our community and highlighted a dire need for stricter regulations and oversight to ensure the safety and well-being of our dogs.

We respectfully urge AVS & NParks to take the following actions:

1. Regulate Grooming Equipment: Establish and enforce standards for the type and safety features of grooming tables and other equipment used in grooming salons. This includes mandatory safety straps and mechanisms to prevent hanging or strangulation.

2. Implement Comprehensive Training: Ensure that all groomers undergo rigorous training and certification processes, focusing on animal safety, handling, and emergency response procedures.

3. Conduct Regular Inspections: Introduce frequent and unannounced inspections of pet shops and grooming salons to ensure compliance with safety standards and protocols.

4. Enforce Accountability: Establish a clear framework for accountability and consequences for groomers and pet shop operators who fail to adhere to safety regulations, including fines, suspension, or revocation of licenses.

5. Raise Public Awareness: Launch public awareness campaigns to educate pet owners about the standards they should expect and encourage them to report any incidents of negligence or unsafe practices.

The recent incidents have highlighted the gaps in our current regulatory framework. We believe that with your authority and intervention, we can prevent further tragedies and protect the lives of our cherished dogs.

We hope AVS & NParks will act swiftly to address these concerns and implement the necessary measures to safeguard our dogs from harm. The safety and well-being of our dogs depend on the actions taken by AVS to enforce stringent regulations and ensure that pet shops and grooming salons operate to the highest standards of care.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. We trust in your commitment to the welfare of our animals and look forward to your prompt action.

Sincerely,

Ronnie Sun
Admin, Dogs Singapore, a Facebook group
dogssingapore@gmail.com

Note: The links below represents a collective voice from various dog community and publish media across Singapore who share a deep concern for the safety and well-being of all pets under professional care.

Supporters of changes 

Fendi the Corgi tragically hangs herself

Dog slips off grooming table, hangs itself on leash