Are you ready to make a difference in the lives of adorable dogs and experience the joy of pet ownership?
Look no further than Project Adore, a groundbreaking adoption and rehoming program in Singapore.
Created by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) in partnership with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) and Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD), this initiative aims to find loving homes for medium-sized mixed-breed dogs, known as Singapore Specials, right in HDB flats.
Key Takeaways
| Key Takeaway | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Adore | Adoption and rehoming program for medium-sized mixed-breed dogs in HDB flats, launched by HDB in collaboration with SPCA and ASD |
| Adoption Process | Potential adopters can visit SPCA or rehoming partners, undergo screening and dog obedience training before being approved to adopt |
| Available Dogs | Project Adore focuses on rehoming medium-sized mixed-breed dogs (Singapore Specials), but larger and smaller dogs may also be rehomed on a case-by-case basis |
| HDB Approval | HDB approval is important for adopters as only certain types of dogs are allowed in HDB flats; criteria include approval, vaccination, microchipping, and obedience training |
| Mixed-Breed Dogs | Mixed-breed dogs often face a lack of homes in Singapore due to preferences for pedigree or purebred dogs |
| Benefits of Adoption | Benefits of adopting mixed-breed dogs include affordability, better health, unique features, and personalities |
| ASD’s Role | ASD is a non-profit organization supporting Project Adore by providing care, promoting adoption, and conducting outreach programs |
| AVA and Veterinary Care | AVA ensures health and welfare of dogs in Project Adore, and veterinary care is provided to dogs before adoption |
| NParks’ Involvement | NParks provides guidance on caring for rehomed dogs in HDB flats and educates adopters on responsible pet ownership |
| Adoption Criteria | Criteria for potential adopters include age, living in an HDB flat, agreement to Code of Responsible Behaviour, and obtaining a dog license |
| Obedience Training | Potential adopters undergo obedience training with their adopted dog to ensure adjustment and responsible ownership |
| Positive Impact | Project Adore has reduced the number of stray dogs, promoted responsible pet ownership, and provided joy to adopters |
| Sniffer Dogs | Sniffer dogs play a role in ensuring security in public places, and retired sniffer dogs can be adopted under Project Adore |
| HDB’s Support | HDB supports Project Adore by allowing mixed-breed dogs to be rehomed in housing, with formalized guidelines for adopters |
| Ministry of National Development | The ministry supports and plans to expand Project Adore, overcoming challenges and promoting adoption |
| Future Plans | The number of mixed-breed dogs allowed in HDB flats will increase, and collaboration between AVS and ASD will grow the program |
| Sustainability | Collaboration among AVS, ASD, and animal welfare groups is crucial for the continued success and sustainability of Project Adore |
Introduction to Project Adore
What is Project Adore?
Project Adore is an adoption and rehoming program that was launched by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) in collaboration with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) and animal welfare group Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD).
Its main objective is to rehome medium-sized mixed-breed dogs, known as Singapore Specials, in HDB flats.
How does Project Adore work?
Potential adopters can visit the SPCA or any Project Adore rehoming partners in Singapore to learn more about Project Adore.
Once they have identified a dog they would like to adopt, they will need to undergo a screening process and attend a dog obedience training course before being approved to adopt.
What types of dogs are available for adoption through Project Adore?
Project Adore focuses on rehoming medium-sized mixed-breed dogs known as Singapore Specials.
These dogs are between 50-55cm tall and typically weigh 15-20kg.
However, the program is not limited to these dogs only, as there is also the possibility of rehoming larger and smaller dogs on a case-by-case basis.
Understanding the Role of HDB in Project Adore
What is HDB?
It provides affordable public housing to more than 80% of Singapore’s residents.
Why is HDB approval important for adopters?
HDB approval is crucial for adopters as only certain types of dogs can be kept in HDB flats.
Under Project Adore, approved adopters can keep their dogs in their HDB flats, provided that specific criteria are met.
What are the requirements for adopting a dog in an HDB flat?
Several criteria need to be met to adopt a dog through Project Adore and keep it in an HDB flat.
HDB must approve the dog, which cannot be of certain breeds deemed aggressive by the government, such as Pit Bulls and Rottweilers.
Additionally, the dog must be fully vaccinated, microchipped, and undergo obedience training.
The Importance of Rehoming Mixed-Breed Dogs in Singapore
Why are mixed-breed dogs often left without homes in Singapore?
Mixed-breed dogs, also known as mongrels or street dogs, often face a lack of homes and are left to roam the streets in Singapore.
Many people prefer pedigree or purebred dogs and are hesitant to adopt mixed breeds.
Some Singaporeans also believe mixed breeds are less well-behaved or trainable than purebred dogs.
What are the benefits of adopting a mixed-breed dog?
There are several benefits to adopting a mixed-breed dog.
Not only are they typically more affordable than purebred dogs, but they are also often healthier as they do not suffer from inherited genetic health problems.
Additionally, mixed-breed dogs tend to have unique features and personalities, making them stand out.
How can mixed-breed dogs be rehomed through Project Adore?
Project Adore focuses on rehoming mixed-breed dogs, particularly Singapore Specials, in HDB flats.
By promoting the adoption of these dogs, Project Adore hopes to reduce the stray dog population in Singapore while giving these dogs a much-needed second chance at a happy and loving home.
Action for Singapore Dogs: A Driving Force Behind Project Adore
What is Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD)?
Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD) is a non-profit organization that aims to improve the lives of stray and abandoned dogs in Singapore.
The group provides food, shelter, and medical care to needy dogs while promoting responsible pet ownership and animal welfare initiatives.
How does ASD support Project Adore?
ASD is one of the key supporters of Project Adore, providing support and resources to the program.
The organization’s volunteers and staff members help care for the dogs in their shelter while promoting Project Adore within the community through outreach programs and adoption drives.
What other initiatives does ASD have to promote animal welfare in Singapore?
In addition to supporting Project Adore, ASD has several other initiatives to promote animal welfare in Singapore.
The organization runs adoption drives, animal rescue missions, and educational programs to raise awareness about animal cruelty and responsible pet ownership.
Collaboration with AVA and Veterinary Services in Project Adore
What is the role of the AVA in Project Adore?
The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) ensures the health and welfare of animals in Singapore.
It works closely with Project Adore to ensure that all dogs up for adoption are in good health and meet the requirements to be HDB approved.
How does veterinary care factor into Project Adore?
Veterinary care is essential to Project Adore, as it helps ensure that the dogs up for adoption are healthy and well-cared for.
The program relies on veterinary services to provide dogs with medical care before adoption, including vaccinations and microchipping.
What resources are available to Project Adore adopters for the care of their dogs?
Project Adore offers resources and support to adopters to help them care for their dogs.
The program includes training courses for dog obedience and behavior, and adopters can also receive free vouchers for veterinary services and dog supplies from National Parks Board (NParks).
Adoption Process and Criteria for Potential Adopters under Project Adore
What are the adoption criteria under Project Adore?
Adopters under Project Adore will be required to meet specific criteria:
- They must be at least 21 and live in an HDB flat.
- They must not have any young children under the age of six.
- They must agree to abide by the Code of Responsible Behaviour for Pet Owners and obtain a dog license for the adopted dog.
How can I apply to adopt a mixed-breed dog under this program?
There are five Project Adore rehoming partners that potential adopters can approach to apply for a mixed-breed dog.
These partners include Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD), Causes for Animals, and SOSD.
The adoption process will involve filling out an adoption form and undergoing house visits to ascertain the suitability of the adopter’s home environment for a dog.
Will I need a special permit to keep a dog in my HDB flat?
Under Project Adore, AVA has raised the maximum height limit for dogs in HDB flats from 50cm to 55cm.
This allows more local mixed-breed dogs and some medium-sized dog breeds to be rehomed in HDB flats.
However, adopters will still need to obtain a dog license for their adopted dog.
Obedience Training: A Crucial Aspect of Project Adore’s Success
What is the role of obedience training in Project Adore?
Aside from meeting the adoption criteria, potential adopters must also undergo obedience training with their adopted dog.
This is crucial in ensuring the dog is well-trained and able to adjust to living in an HDB flat.
Moreover, obedience training helps promote responsible pet ownership and prevent abandonment or neglect.
Who conducts the dog training sessions, and what do they entail?
The dog training sessions are conducted by either the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) or accredited dog training schools.
These sessions typically include basic obedience training, such as positional commands and socialization exercises.
The duration of the training program varies depending on the individual dog’s progress.
How long does it usually take for a rehomed dog to complete its training?
The average training program for a rehomed dog under Project Adore lasts from two weeks to three months.
However, depending on their temperament and behavior, some dogs may require additional training.
National Parks Board’s Involvement in the Rehoming of Dogs under Project Adore
What is the role of the National Parks Board (NParks) in Project Adore?
NParks play an essential role in ensuring the success of Project Adore.
As Singapore’s primary agency responsible for managing public parks and nature reserves, NParks is accountable for guiding adopters and rehoming partners on caring for and managing rehomed dogs in HDB flats.
How does NParks ensure that rehomed dogs are able to adjust to living in HDB flats?
NParks works closely with adopters and rehoming partners to provide pre-adoption education and guidelines for caring for rehomed dogs in HDB estates.
This includes providing tips on managing behaviors such as barking, toilet training, and socialization with other dogs and humans.
Adopters must also attend basic obedience training before bringing their rehomed dog home.
What are some of the challenges faced by NParks in this program?
One of the biggest challenges faced by NParks and rehoming partners is ensuring that rehomed dogs are correctly socialized and trained to habituate to living in HDB flats.
Additionally, raising awareness about the benefits of adopting a mixed-breed dog and promoting responsible pet ownership remains an ongoing challenge for Animal Welfare Groups (AWGs) and rehoming partners.
Ensuring Animal Welfare: The Role of Animal Welfare Groups in Project Adore
How do animal welfare groups such as SOSD ensure that rehomed dogs are well taken care of?
Most AWGs have a team of experienced dog trainers and veterinary personnel who follow up with adopters to ensure that rehomed dogs are well-fed, adequately groomed, and receive timely veterinary care.
These groups also provide behavioral training and support services to adopters and dogs to help facilitate a successful transition to life in an HDB flat.
What happens to a mixed-breed dog that cannot be rehomed under Project Adore?
Dogs unsuitable for rehoming through Project Adore due to aggressive behavior or other factors are typically referred to accredited animal shelters for assessment and care.
These shelters work with AWGs to provide behavioral and medical rehabilitation to dogs that require it and seek to find suitable forever homes for all dogs in their care.
What should I do if I suspect animal abuse or neglect?
Suppose you suspect an animal is being abused or neglected.
In that case, you should report it to the relevant authorities, such as AVA or the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).
These authorities can investigate and act against animal cruelty perpetrators under the Animal and Birds Act.
The Positive Impact of Project Adore on the Stray Dog Population in Singapore
How has Project Adore helped reduce the number of stray dogs in Singapore?
Since its inception, Project Adore has helped to reduce the number of stray dogs in Singapore by providing a viable pathway for the rehoming of mixed-breed dogs in HDB flats.
This is important as mixed-breed dogs make up a significant portion of the stray dog population in Singapore and were often overlooked by potential adopters due to restrictions on keeping dogs in HDB flats.
What are some of the other benefits of this program?
In addition to its positive impact on the stray dog population, Project Adore has also helped to promote responsible pet ownership and reduce the incidence of abandonment or neglect of dogs in HDB estates.
Furthermore, the program has allowed more Singaporeans to experience the joys of pet ownership and reap the physical and emotional benefits associated with having a canine companion.
Can I adopt retired sniffer dogs under Project Adore?
Retired sniffer dogs or K9s can indeed be adopted under Project Adore.
These dogs are often highly trained and friendly animals that make excellent pets.
Potential adopters must follow the same adoption criteria and guidelines as for other rehomed dogs under Project Adore.
Sniffer Dogs under Project Adore: Enhancing Safety and Security in Singapore
The Role of K9 Sniffer Dogs in Ensuring Security in Public Places
K9 sniffer dogs are crucial in ensuring safety and security in public places.
They are trained to detect explosives, drugs, and other harmful substances to prevent potential threats.
Adapting Sniffer Dogs to Singapore’s Climate and Environment
Adapting sniffer dogs to Singapore’s climate and environment is challenging, as the weather is hot and humid.
The Singapore Police Force and Singapore Civil Defence Force have successfully trained and deployed sniffer dogs under Project Adore, despite the challenging climate.
The Success of Sniffer Dogs under Project Adore
The success of sniffer dogs under Project Adore is evident in ensuring public safety.
These specially trained dogs have detected and prevented the entry of explosives and harmful substances into public places, enhancing Singapore’s security.
HDB’s Support for Project Adore and Formalized Guidelines
Understanding HDB’s Criteria for Project Adore Approval
HDB’s support for Project Adore implies allowing mixed-breed dogs to be rehomed in housing.
However, there are specific criteria for approval, considering the HDB’s guidelines on dog ownership in HDB flats.
The HDB will ensure that the dog is only rehomed when it reaches the ascertain full-grown size of a dog to prevent any space constraints in the flat.
Formalizing Guidelines for Project Adore Adopters
Adopters under Project Adore apply for and sign an agreement outlining their dog owners’ responsibilities.
The guidelines specify that adopters must leash the dog outside their flats, ensure their dogs are well-behaved, and not create a nuisance in the neighborhood.
The Importance of HDB’s Support in Promoting Mixed-Breed Dog Adoption
HDB’s support for Project Adore has promoted mixed-breed dog adoption in Singapore.
The program has given a chance to larger dogs and local cross-breed dogs, who would’ve otherwise been left out due to breed restrictions.
Challenges and Successes of Project Adore: Insights from the Ministry of National Development
Overcoming Challenges in Promoting Adoption of Mixed-Breed Dogs
Overcoming challenges in promoting the adoption of mixed-breed dogs is essential in sustaining the program.
The Ministry of National Development has worked with six animal welfare groups to make Project Adore successful.
Success Stories of Mixed-Breed Dogs Rehomed through Project Adore
Mixed-breed dogs have been rehomed through Project Adore since its inception in May 2014.
The Singapore Police Force and Civil Defence Force have successfully rehomed sniffer dogs under the program, proving that mixed-breed dogs can be rehomed in HDB flats.
Understanding the Ministry’s Future Plans for Project Adore
Given the success of Project Adore, the Ministry of National Development intends to allow, more mixed-breed dogs to be rehomed in HDB flats.
The number of Project Adore adoptions is set to grow, supported by the ministry.
Expanding Project Adore: Updates, Developments, and Future Plans
Increasing the Number of Mixed-Breed Dogs Allowed for HDB Living
The Housing Development Board plans to allow more mixed-breed dogs to be rehomed in HDB flats to encourage more dog lovers to adopt mixed-breed dogs.
AVS and ASD Collaboration in Growing the Project Adore Programme
The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVS) and Animal and Veterinary Service (ASD) will work to grow the Project Adore program.
The collaboration between these two agencies is essential in ensuring the continued success and sustainability of Project Adore.
Ensuring the Continued Success and Sustainability of Project Adore
Ensuring the continued success and sustainability of Project Adore is a collective effort.
AVS, ASD, and animal welfare groups will work together to promote responsible dog ownership, raise awareness, and ensure the smooth rehoming of mixed-breed dogs.
Promoting Responsible Dog Ownership: Community Acceptance and Mediation Channels under Project Adore
Raising Awareness of Responsible Dog Ownership among Potential Adopters
Project Adore is promoting responsible dog ownership by raising awareness among potential adopters.
The program aims to educate dog owners on responsible ownership and the guidelines to follow in HDB flats.
Community Acceptance and Involvement in Project Adore
Community acceptance and involvement in Project Adore are vital to its success.
Engaging residents in the neighborhood and promoting communal harmony between dog owners and non-dog owners is essential.
Mediation Channels for Resolving Issues in HDB Living with Mixed-Breed Dogs
Mediation channels for resolving issues in HDB living with mixed-breed dogs are in place.
Adopters under Project Adore can seek assistance from animal welfare groups and HDB to resolve any problems they face while living with their dogs in HDB flats.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Project Adore is a successful initiative promoting mixed-breed dog adoption and enhancing safety and security in Singapore.
Its success can be attributed to the collective efforts of various agencies, animal welfare groups, and the support of the HDB.
With increasing popularity, the program is set to grow, ensuring a chance for many mixed-breed dogs to be rehomed into loving homes.
Project Adore is a groundbreaking adoption and rehoming program that aims to find loving homes for medium-sized mixed-breed dogs, particularly Singapore Specials, in HDB flats.
Through collaborations between the HDB, SPCA, ASD, AVA, and various animal welfare groups, Project Adore has significantly reduced the stray dog population in Singapore while promoting responsible pet ownership.
The program’s success can be attributed to the stringent adoption criteria, which ensure that dogs are placed in suitable homes, and the mandatory obedience training adopters undergo to ensure a smooth transition for both the dog and the adopter.
HDB’s support and formalized guidelines have been instrumental in facilitating the adoption of mixed-breed dogs and enhancing the safety and security of public places by including sniffer dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Project ADORE?
Project ADORE (ADOption and REhoming of dogs) is a program launched by the Singapore government in 2012 to encourage the adoption of local cross-breed dogs and larger breeds that exceed the weight or height limits for HDB flats.
What are the weight restrictions for dogs in HDB flats?
As of the 14th edition of the HDB Animal Control Regulations, dogs in HDB flats are not allowed if they are over 15 kilograms in weight or exceed 50cm in shoulder height.
What are some of the welfare group partners involved in Project ADORE?
Some of the welfare group partners involved in Project ADORE include Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD), Causes for Animals, Save Our Street Dogs (SOSD), and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).
What is the adoption scheme for dogs under Project ADORE?
Under the adoption scheme, interested adopters may approach any participating animal welfare groups to view and adopt a dog.
However, stringent adoption conditions and ownership criteria must first be met and agreed upon.
Can larger dog breeds still be adopted under Project ADORE?
Yes, larger dog breeds can still be adopted under Project ADORE if they do not exceed the height limit of 55cm.
The weight limit for all dogs under the scheme is still at 20kg.
How has Project ADORE expanded since its launch?
Following its success as a 1-year pilot project, the program was extended to a 2-year pilot in 2013, after which it was formalized and permanently implemented.
What is the ADORE scheme for rehoming dogs?
The ADORE scheme for rehoming dogs is a channel for participating animal welfare groups to work together to rehome abandoned or stray dogs in Singapore.
Has there been an increase in the height limit for dogs under Project ADORE?
Yes, the height criterion has been increased from 50cm to 55cm, allowing more dogs to be eligible for adoption under the scheme.
Are there any stringent conditions when adopting a dog under Project ADORE?
There are stringent conditions placed on potential adopters, including attending dog ownership and responsible pet ownership courses and agreeing to a mandatory home visit by AVA-accredited trainers.
