Updated: 10/22/2013 21:22 | By Channel NewsAsia
AVA probes case of dog who was euthanised for aggression
SINGAPORE: The regulatory authority for veterinarians in Singapore said it has looked into the case of a rescued pet dog being put down by a vet for aggression, at the request of its adopter.
The statement from the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) on Tuesday followed reports on the case and calls for the authorities to look into the euthanisation of a dog that was apparently healthy.
In the statement, AVA said it has found that the owner had considered alternatives such as re-homing the dog before deciding to have it put down.
The vet clinic had also followed protocol before acceding to the owner's request, including discussing the alternatives with the owner.
AVA added that the clinic had experienced first-hand the aggression of the dog.
It said before the animal was put down, other vets at the clinic who examined the dog also found its behaviour to be hostile, with its aggression escalating on subsequent visits.
"On its last visit to the clinic on 7 Oct 2013, it could not be muzzled by clinic staff and needed sedation for procedures that required more handling," said the statement on the seven-year-old dog.
AVA said vets have the responsibility to consider not just the welfare of a pet or animal, but also the concerns and circumstances of the pet owner.
It said vets will provide veterinary advice and administer the necessary treatment to a pet.
They may at times be called on to put down an animal for various reasons, including to relieve the animal of its suffering, or if the animal is aggressive.
AVA said this is also the practice of the veterinary profession in the UK, US and Australia.
It added that while the arrangement between the rescuer of animal and its adopter is a private matter, only dogs of suitable temperament and health should be re-homed.
AVA urged calm from all parties concerned, and advised them to settle the matter amicably. - CNA/xq
