The Ministry of National Development (MND) is reviewing whether pet grooming businesses should be required to install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, as part of an ongoing update to the Animals and Birds Act. Minister of State Alvin Tan addressed this on Wednesday (Jan 14) during parliamentary questions from MP Jessica Tan (PAP-East Coast).
The questions followed an incident last November, when a dog reportedly died at a Tanjong Katong Road pet grooming facility after being left unattended. In response, Mr Tan said the National Parks Board had investigated 54 cases of feedback about potential harm to pets caused by groomers over the past three years.
Review of Regulations and Penalties
As part of the law review, MND is also looking at the regulatory framework for pet sector activities, which includes pet grooming businesses. Mr Tan said the review is meant to strengthen public health and safety while ensuring the welfare of animals.
He added, “We will consider whether to include requirements for CCTV recordings when we amend the legislation.” The review will also look at the penalty framework to make sure it remains effective in deterring acts of animal cruelty and abuse.
High Standards for Animal Care
Mr Tan emphasized that people who work in animal-related businesses, including pet groomers, are entrusted with the care of their clients’ animals. “Hence, these individuals face higher maximum penalties under the Animals and Birds Act for animal cruelty and welfare offences compared to other members of the public,” he said.
Failure to meet the minimum standards outlined in the Code of Animal Welfare may also be used as evidence for enforcement. “Upon conviction for an animal welfare offence, the court may also issue a disqualification order to an individual to disqualify them from owning an animal or running an animal-related business for up to 12 months,” Mr Tan added.
