While there is currently no licensing regime for pet groomers, all individuals working in animal-related businesses, including pet groomers, are expected to uphold higher standards of animal welfare, said Minister for National Development Desmond Lee.

He was answering parliamentary questions on pet grooming services posed by Members of Parliament (MPs) through a written reply on Sep. 9.

This follows the death of a pet corgi at a grooming salon on Jul. 24, 2024, after it was left unattended.

Lee said that investigations into the incident are ongoing and declined to comment further on the case.

No licensing regime for pet groomers

Lee said that groomers are expected to uphold higher standards of animal welfare because they are entrusted with the care of their clients’ animals.

There is currently no licensing regime for pet groomers.

Penalties

Lee highlighted that, under the law, anyone found guilty of animal cruelty or failure of duty of care while operating or employed by an animal-related business will face up to two years imprisonment or a fine of S$40,000, or both, for a first offence.

Penalties will be more severe for reoffenders, he added.

For second or subsequent offences, such individuals face up to three years of imprisonment, a fine of S$100,000, or both.

Individuals or businesses that are convicted of an animal welfare offence could also be issued a disqualification order.

In addition, the Code of Animal Welfare (for the Pet Industry) sets out minimum animal housing, management and care standards for pet businesses, including pet grooming facilities.

Lee said failure to meet minimum standards stipulated in the Code may be used as evidence for enforcement action.

Reviewing regulations

Lee shared that the government is reviewing the Animals and Birds Act to enhance legislative powers to safeguard animal health and welfare.

"Under this review, we are studying the penalties for animal cruelty and failure to fulfil duty of care and will share more details when ready," he said.

Other pet service providers

Other pet service providers such as commercial pet boarders, breeders, pet shops, and veterinary clinics require licences to operate, Lee said.

They are required to have the relevant accreditation and certification under the respective licensing conditions.

For instance, licensees and employees responsible for the day-to-day management and care of animals at commercial pet boarders, breeders and pet shops must attend mandatory training on pet care and management at a teaching institution approved by the National Parks Board, Lee said.

Deaths of pets at groomers

The attention to pet grooming services comes after several cases of pet deaths and alleged mishandling at grooming salons in Singapore.

Another grooming salon came to media attention earlier in July after an owner claimed her dogs were muzzled with cable ties at the salon.

In May 2024, a groomer was found guilty of causing unnecessary pain and suffering to the animal after a dog slipped off a grooming table and was found hanging by its leash.

A 10-month-old Chow Chow also died under the care of a groomer in March 2024.

Top photo from Sonia