Measures against Errant and Illegal Pet Sellers

Mr Edward Chia Bing Hui asked the Minister for National Development (a) what are the existing measures to act against errant and illegal pet sellers; and (b) what is the recourse for people purchasing such pets from these sellers.

Under the Animals and Birds Act, all pet sellers must hold a valid licence in order to display or sell pets. This is to safeguard animal health and welfare.

The National Parks Board (NParks) conducts regular inspections to ensure that pet shops comply with licensing conditions. It also investigates reports of errant or illegal pet sellers, and takes the appropriate enforcement action against offenders.

Those who are found guilty of operating a pet shop without a licence may be fined up to $5,000, jailed for up to six months, or both. Pet sellers who breach their licensing conditions may also have their licences suspended or revoked. Those found to have failed in their duty of care towards the animals under their charge can also be fined up to $40,000, jailed for up to two years, or both, on their first conviction under the Animals and Birds Act.

NParks strongly encourages prospective pet owners to adopt their pets from animal welfare groups or purchase them from licensed pet shops. Should the public encounter any errant or illegal pet sellers, they should report them to NParks immediately for investigation. Individuals who face disputes with pet sellers may also approach the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) to assist them in seeking further recourse.