How to Adopt a Dog or Cat in Singapore: SPCA, Animal Welfare Groups, and Project ADORE

Adoption is one of the most popular ways to get a pet in Singapore, particularly for expats who want a pet but do not want to go through the international import process. Thousands of dogs and cats are available for adoption through the SPCA, licensed animal welfare groups (AWGs), and AVS-run schemes like Project ADORE.

This guide covers how adoption works, what the process involves, and what to check before adopting — particularly if you live in an HDB flat.

All process information is sourced from avs.nparks.gov.sg and spca.org.sg. Verify current adoption requirements directly with the AWG or AVS before proceeding.

Who Can You Adopt From?

Animal Welfare Groups (AWGs): AVS maintains a register of licensed partner AWGs. Known AWGs on the list include:

• SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
• SOSD (Save Our Street Dogs)
• ASD (Action for Singapore Dogs)
• Causes for Animals Singapore

The full current list is at avs.nparks.gov.sg/outreach/resources/partner-animal-welfare-groups/. Only adopt from AVS-registered AWGs to ensure the animal has been properly assessed and the adoption is legally recorded.

SPCA: Singapore's main animal shelter and one of the most accessible adoption sources. The SPCA runs adoption events and has a walk-in shelter in Sungei Tengah. Adoption fees typically range from S$70 to S$250 per animal and include microchipping, vaccination, and sterilisation.

What Adoption Fees Cover

At most AWGs, the adoption fee covers:

• Microchip implantation (if not already done)
• Core vaccinations
• Sterilisation (compulsory for most adopted animals)
• Basic health check
• Post-adoption licensing guidance

You are responsible for:

• Licensing the animal via PALS after adoption
• Ongoing vaccinations, vet care, and food
• Any post-adoption compliance requirements (e.g., Project ADORE training)

The Adoption Process

Steps vary by AWG, but the general process is:

1. Browse available animals. Most AWGs maintain updated listings on their websites. Some also have shelter visits on scheduled days.

2. Submit an adoption application. Complete the AWG's adoption form. You will need to provide your housing type, living situation, and details of all household members.

3. Adoption counselling and interview. AWGs assess whether your lifestyle and home are suitable for the specific animal. This may involve a phone or in-person interview. All household members may need to be present.

4. Home visit. Some AWGs conduct a home visit to assess the environment before approving the adoption.

5. Trial homestay or temperament assessment. Some AWGs offer a trial period to see how the animal settles in your home before the adoption is finalised.

6. Sign the adoption agreement and pay the adoption fee. You receive the animal's records (microchip number, vaccination history, sterilisation certificate).

7. Register with PALS. Apply for a dog or cat licence via pals.avs.gov.sg. The animal's microchip number from the AWG records is the identifier.

Project ADORE: Adopting Larger Dogs into HDB Flats

HDB flats only permit dogs from a list of approximately 62 small breeds. If you live in an HDB flat and want a dog that is not on that list, Project ADORE is the only pathway.

Project ADORE allows HDB residents to adopt a Singapore Special (local mixed-breed dog) through approved AWG partners. The dogs admitted to Project ADORE must be:

• Sterilised and microchipped
• Up to 55cm in height at the shoulder (higher than the standard HDB 40cm limit)
• Assessed as suitable for apartment living

Additional requirements for Project ADORE adopters:

• The adopted dog must pass the AWG's temperament assessment
• The adopter must complete mandatory basic obedience training with an AVS-accredited certified trainer
• Post-adoption support and follow-up are provided by the AWG

Approved Project ADORE AWGs include SPCA, SOSD, and ASD. Confirm current participation with the AWG before applying.

K-9 Scheme: Retired SAF and SPF Working Dogs

AVS also facilitates the adoption of retired working dogs from the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and Singapore Police Force (SPF). Breeds available under this scheme include:

• Labrador Retrievers
• English Springer Spaniels
• Cocker Spaniels
• Pointers

These are larger breeds that would not typically qualify for HDB under the standard size rules. Retired working dog adoption is handled through a specific AVS process — check avs.nparks.gov.sg for current programme details.

Prohibited Cat Breeds: Cannot Be Adopted in Singapore

Bengal cats and Savannah cats are prohibited from import and ownership in Singapore. They cannot be adopted from any local AWG or shelter. If an AWG has these cats in its care (rescued animals), they cannot be rehomed locally.

All other domestic cat breeds — including domestic shorthairs, British Shorthairs, Persians, Maine Coons, Ragdolls — are permitted.

After Adoption: Licensing and Microchip Registration

After adopting:

1. Register the microchip in PALS if not already done by the AWG
2. Apply for a dog or cat licence via pals.avs.gov.sg
3. First-time PALS applicants must complete the free PORK (Pet Owner Responsibility and Knowledge) online course before applying for a licence

Dog licences require renewal annually (for unsterilised dogs) or are lifetime for sterilised dogs. Cat licences are lifetime for sterilised cats.

Frequently Asked Questions

I am an expat on an EP. Can I adopt a dog or cat in Singapore? Yes. AWGs assess adopters based on their living situation and lifestyle, not their immigration status. Expats on long-term visas regularly adopt pets in Singapore.

Can I adopt a cat in an HDB flat? Yes. From 1 September 2024, up to 2 cats are permitted per HDB flat. Adopted cats must be sterilised, microchipped, and licensed via PALS.

What happens to the adoption if I leave Singapore? If you plan to leave Singapore with your pet, you will need to go through the standard export process (export licence, health certificate, destination country requirements). If you cannot take the pet, you would need to rehome them responsibly — ideally through the same AWG you adopted from.

Are shelter dogs well-socialised? Most AWGs assess animal temperament before listing for adoption and match animals to appropriate homes. Discuss the specific animal's history and behaviour with the AWG before adopting.

If you later need to bring a new Singapore-adopted pet abroad, or import a pet to Singapore, contact our team for export or import agent services.

Source: Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS), SPCA Singapore. Verify current adoption process and fees directly with each AWG.