Shelters, NParks, Mandai Wildlife Group take haze-relief measures to protect animals
SPCA's most vulnerable animals are housed in air-conditioned clinic wards.
In Singapore, animal welfare organisations and shelters are taking various measures to protect animals from the toxic haze plaguing the nation. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has moved its most vulnerable animals to air-conditioned clinic wards, as its main shelter lacks adequate climate control. These animals include seniors and those with pre-existing health issues such as asthma and kidney problems.
Where possible, the SPCA has also moved other at-risk animals into air-conditioned spaces, including its offices and shop. SPCA spokespersons have stated that they have not observed any signs of distress in the animals due to the protective measures in place.
Meanwhile, the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) has employed fans, cooling towers, and air purifiers at its facilities to improve ventilation. They have also brought more susceptible animals indoors and shortened outdoor activities, including dog walks and toileting sessions. Animal welfare organisations like SPCA, SOSD (Singapore Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Dogs), and Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD) have also reduced outdoor time for their animals, limiting walks to short periods and monitoring the animals' health closely.
ASD founder Ricky Yeo mentioned that while the dogs have been cooperative with the shorter walks, there is a concern that they might become restless and fight if confined indoors for extended periods. The Mandai Wildlife Group, which houses various animals, has intensified monitoring of its inhabitants for any changes in health or behavior.
They have also adjusted staff duties to minimize time spent outdoors and have provided indoor rest breaks as necessary. NParks, the national park board, has not received any haze-related animal rescue cases thus far but has protocols in place to handle wildlife in distress during such episodes. They also study the long-term impacts of haze on Singapore's forest ecosystems and native wildlife to inform future management strategies.
Written by urgent.news from Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
