Everything You Need To Know About Adopting A Dog
Welcoming a dog into your home is an exciting chapter in your life. It's a journey filled with new routines, cherished moments, and a deepening bond between you and your new furry friend. Among the many ways to find your new four-legged companion, adopting a shelter dog in Singapore stands out as an option that offers immense benefits not just for the pet, but for the owner as well.
If you are contemplating adopting a dog, there are a few intricacies involved in the process. From understanding the emotional and physical implications of having a pet, to navigating the practical aspects such as costs, health care, and pet insurance in Singapore, this blog aims to equip you with the essential knowledge needed for a successful adoption.
Benefits of Adopting a Dog
There’s a reason why dogs are often termed man’s best friend, and adopting a dog brings with it a multitude of benefits. Firstly, it can provide a sense of fulfilment and purpose, knowing that you have given a second chance to an animal in need. Dogs are known to offer unconditional love, companionship, and can significantly improve your mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and loneliness.
Physically, having a dog encourages a more active lifestyle. Regular walks and playtime keep both you and your dog fit and healthy. Additionally, studies have shown that dog owners often have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Adopting a dog can also instil a sense of community as you connect with other dog owners and participate in local pet-related events.
How Can I Adopt a Dog in Singapore?
Adopting a dog in Singapore is a straightforward process with many reputable places to find the right rescue dog for you. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is one of the more well-known organisations where you can find dogs waiting for their forever homes. Additionally, numerous local shelters such as Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD) and Save Our Street Dogs (SOSD) offer opportunities to adopt a dog, as well as other reputable organisations like the Animal Lovers League (ALL) and Causes for Animals Singapore (CAS).
Always look to adopt a dog from an established organisation to ensure that the animal has received proper care, vaccinations, and health checks. When adopting a dog, expect a thorough process that includes an application form, interviews, and home visits. This is to ascertain that you are ready and able to provide a suitable environment for your new pet. Shelters often have a wide range of rescue dogs, from puppies to older dogs, each with their unique personalities and individual needs.
Adopting A Dog in Singapore: The Process
Different organisations have varying processes when it comes to pet adoption. The SPCA for example requires prospective owners to make an appointment where they will receive adoption counselling. During the session, an interview will be conducted and members of the family taking care of the dog may be required to attend. There may also be a premises check to make sure your home is suitable for your new furry friend. The adoption can only go through with the approval of the adoption counsellor.
SOSD has an equally stringent adoption process where a screening will take place before you are allowed to adopt. Key questions during the process cover the potential owner's lifestyle, the dog's future home, and financial readiness. After that a one-week home stay will be conducted to assess if the dog is a good fit for the new owner and their home. The adoption papers can be signed after the home stay and subsequent home visit. The adoption fee for SOSD is set at $300 which covers the cost of microchipping, vaccinations, sterilisation, and administration.
If you are adopting a dog from ASD, an adoption counsellor will get in touch after potential owners have submitted the Adoption Application Form. Photos and videos of the residence will also be required and safety measures such as window grilles may be suggested on a case-by-case basis. ASD has a 2-week homestay period during which the adoption counsellor will be in constant communication with the potential owners. If after this period the owners are keen on adopting the dog, then the Adoption Agreement can be signed and the adoption fee needs to be paid. This fee will be $400 for a local cross-breed, or $600 for a pedigree dog.
Meet a Local Favourite: The Singapore Special
The Singapore Special is a mixed breed commonly found in local dog shelters and at the SPCA. These dogs are a blend of various breeds and are known for their resilience, intelligence, and unique charm. They are often street dogs that have been rescued and rehabilitated, making them incredibly adaptable and grateful for a loving home.
Retired but Not Tired: Police Dogs
Another unique adoption opportunity in Singapore is taking in retired police dogs. These dogs have served in various capacities, from narcotics detection to public safety, and are known for their exceptional training and temperament. Adopting a retired police dog means welcoming a disciplined, intelligent, and loyal companion into your home. These dogs often adapt well to home environments and bring a sense of security to their new families.
How Much Does An Adoption Cost?
The price of adopting a dog can vary depending on the organisation and the dog's breed and size. Generally, adoption fees range from SGD 70 to SGD 400. This is significantly lower than the price of purchasing a dog from breeders or pet stores, where prices can go into the thousands. For exact pet adoption costs it’s always useful to check with the organisation by reaching out to them directly.
Initial and Ongoing Costs
Beyond the pet adoption fee, there are initial and ongoing costs to consider.
Initial costs include veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and essential supplies such as a bed, leash, and food bowls. These initial expenses can add up to around SGD 700.
Ongoing costs include regular veterinary visits, vaccinations, food, grooming, and affordable insurance for your pet. On average, these can amount to SGD 1,000 to SGD 2,000 annually, depending on the dog's size and health needs. Do note that these costs can vary a lot so do be prepared to budget for higher expenses.
The Health of Your Adopted Dog
Adopting a rescue dog from a shelter near you might come with health challenges. Common issues include dental problems, skin conditions, and parasites. Early intervention and regular veterinary care in Singapore are crucial to ensure your adopted dog remains healthy and happy. Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and preventive care like vaccinations and flea control can help manage and prevent health issues.
Prepare For a Rainy Day with Insurance for Your Pet in Singapore
Healthcare costs for your new furry friend can add up quickly. Pet insurance is an essential consideration for managing veterinary bills and protecting against unexpected expenses. It provides peace of mind knowing that you can afford necessary treatments without financial strain.
When selecting affordable insurance for your pet, consider coverage options, premiums, and exclusions to find a plan that meets your dog’s needs and your financial situation. One option for pet insurance in Singapore would be Income’s Happy Tails Pet Insurance, which aims to cushion out-of-pocket expenses. Providing coverage for surgical expenses due to your pet’s injuries, sickness, specified congenital and hereditary conditions1, Happy Tails pet insurance ensures your pet receives the best possible care without straining your finances.
Give A Rescue Dog A Forever Home
Adopting a dog is a rewarding experience that extends beyond companionship. It’s a commitment to improving the life of an animal in need and, in turn, enriching your own life. By adopting, you contribute positively to the community by supporting animal shelters in Singapore and promoting animal welfare.
As you welcome a new pet into your home, consider the importance of protecting their health financially with Happy Tails pet insurance. This insurance plan complements your commitment to your new pet, offering peace of mind and the assurance that your furry friend will receive the veterinary care they need, allowing you to focus on their recovery without worrying about the costs.
Have a query about insurance for your dog? Speak to an Income Insurance advisor today who can help you better understand our pet insurance plan.
1 If your pet is below six years of age at the start of the first policy year, we shall cover the following specified hereditary and congenital conditions after a 12-month waiting period from the start date of the policy, provided they are not pre-existing medical conditions:
(i) Hip and elbow dysplasia
(ii) Luxating patella
(iii) Glaucoma
(iv) Cherry eye
(v) Intervertebral disk disease (IVDD)
(vi) Conditions which require femoral head and neck excision
This article is meant purely for informational purposes and should not be relied upon as financial advice. The precise terms, conditions and exclusions of any Income Insurance products mentioned are specified in their respective policy contracts. For customised advice to suit your specific needs, consult an Income Insurance advisor. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
These policies are protected under the Policy Owners’ Protection Scheme which is administered by the Singapore Deposit Insurance Corporation (SDIC). Coverage for your policy is automatic and no further action is required from you. For more information on the types of benefits that are covered under the scheme as well as the limits of coverage, where applicable, please contact Income Insurance or visit the GIA/LIA or SDIC websites (www.gia.org.sg or www.lia.org.sg or www.sdic.org.sg).
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