Animal Instincts

If you’re considering adding a four-legged companion to your brood, we recommend you adopt instead of buy. Not only will you be saving a life, you’ll be gaining an affectionate ( and unique!) pal at the same time. Here are the basics you need to know about the adoption process. #1 Don’t Shop, Adopt!

For various unfortunate reasons, many dogs, cats and other animals are abandoned in Singapore’s construction sites, parks and roadsides. The lucky ones get rescued and rehabilitated by pet organisations and charities, who work hard to find them loving homes. By going down the adoption route, you’ll be giving an animal another chance at a happy life, and reducing the number of stray animals roaming the island.

#2 Be Prepared

Before you decide to adopt, make sure you and your family members are in it for the long haul and on the same page about the money and time commitment involved in caring for your new pal. Pet insurance is now available here, so do factor that into the cost of keeping a cuddly companion. Once you’ve got all the details covered, check out our list of rescue organisations ( opposite) to start the journey.

#3 Screen Time

If you’re adopting, prepare yourself mentally for quite a bit of a screening, including interviews, house visits and bonding sessions – this isn’t a walk-in, walk-out job, and it can take weeks to organise after you’ve found the perfect pet. With this being a second shot for these animals, the organisations want to make sure they finally go to the loving homes they deserve.

#4 Still Not Sure?

Having second thoughts about committing to adoption? If you still have time and love to spare, you could definitely consider volunteering at a rescue society or fostering an animal – just get in touch with the individual organisation for details.