11 puppies seized at Woodlands Checkpoint

SINGAPORE — Eleven puppies were found smuggled in a Malaysia-registered car, following further inspection upon its arrival at the Woodlands Checkpoint on Thursday night (March 23).

The puppies were found hidden in a modified fuel tank of the car by officers from the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). The car was driven by a lone 43-year-old male Malaysian.

The driver, the puppies and the car were referred to the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA). Investigations are ongoing.

Meanwhile, the 11 puppies have been kept for and quarantined at AVA’s facilities. They are being observed for signs of infectious or contagious diseases, including rabies, which can be fatal to both humans and animals.

Responding to TODAY’s queries, the AVA said the puppies will be quarantined for a minimum of 100 days and it will work with its rehoming partners to rehome them after the quarantine period.

The importation of any animals or live birds without an AVA permit is illegal and carries a maximum penalty of S$10,000 and/or imprisonment of up to one year.

The public can refer to the AVA’s website or download the agency’s mobile app SG TravelKaki for more information on bringing back animals from other countries.