Guidelines for Veterinarians on Issue of Convenience Euthanasia

Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Ministry will issue a circular to all veterinarians to provide guidelines on the issue of convenience euthanasia; (b) if so, when does the Ministry intend to do so; and (c) if not, why not.

NParks has a framework in place to regulate the euthanasia of animals. Veterinarians are required to comply with the Code of Ethics for Veterinarians as part of their licensing conditions. Under the Code, veterinarians are required to consider animal welfare and public safety in deciding the course of treatment for an animal. Specifically, the Code provides that veterinarians must consider other treatment options prior to considering euthanasia. The Code also allows veterinarians to reject an owner’s request for euthanasia, should he or she not deem it necessary. NParks works closely with the Singapore Veterinary Association to review the Code of Ethics regularly to ensure that it is in line with developments in the veterinary sector and international best practices.

The Rehoming and Adoption Workgroup, comprising NParks, animal welfare groups, veterinarians and trainers, had discussed the topic of euthanasia arising from behavioural issues. The workgroup has developed guidelines to clarify the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders, including for post-adoption support, before a decision to euthanise an animal is made. These guidelines, released in January 2022, serve to ensure that there are good understanding and communication amongst all parties. NParks will also continue to keep veterinarians updated on these guidelines through its regular veterinary newsletters and during veterinary licensing briefings.