Amid persistent haze in Singapore caused by fires in Indonesia, several animal welfare organisations and government agencies have implemented measures to protect the health of animals under their care.

Since early September, smoke haze has intermittently reduced air quality in Singapore, reaching unhealthy levels for 18 consecutive days in October. This has raised concerns over the impact on both human and animal health, with symptoms such as rapid or laboured breathing, watery eyes, and changes in appetite or water intake.

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Singapore has responded by relocating its most vulnerable animals—such as seniors and those with pre-existing medical conditions like asthma and kidney issues—to air-conditioned clinic wards. The shelter itself lacks air conditioning, making widespread use of air purifiers challenging. Animals deemed next most vulnerable have been moved to other air-conditioned spaces, including the SPCA offices and retail shop. A spokesperson reported no signs of haze-related distress so far, attributing this to early precautionary measures and ongoing monitoring efforts.

Similarly, the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) under the National Parks Board (NParks) has enhanced ventilation at its facilities using fans, cooling towers, and air purifiers. More susceptible animals have been brought indoors where possible. Activities such as dog walks and toileting have been shortened to minimize outdoor exposure.

Shelters run by Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD) have also adjusted routines. ASD, which cares for around 60 dogs at The Animal Lodge in Sungei Tengah, has reduced walk durations from up to 30 minutes to the minimum required for toilet breaks. ASD founder Ricky Yeo noted that the dogs have adapted well to the shorter outings so far, with no behavioural issues reported.

The Mandai Wildlife Group has increased health and behaviour monitoring of its animals, though no concerns have emerged. The group ensures animals have access to sheltered indoor and back-of-house areas and will relocate individuals if needed. Activities such as public presentations may be paused depending on air quality. Staff duties have been modified to reduce time spent outdoors, with non-essential outdoor work deferred.

NParks confirmed that no haze-related animal rescue cases have been reported to date, but protocols remain in place for wildlife in distress. Addressing potential long-term effects, NParks studies forest ecosystems and native wildlife responses during El Niño events, which bring drier weather and exacerbate haze conditions. Baseline data collection before and after these periods informs strategies for forest management and wildlife protection.

During the severe 2015 El Niño drought, a collaboration between NParks and the University of Kent documented a significant decline in wildlife sounds, primarily from birds, in central Singapore. The disruption endured for at least three weeks, with only partial recovery noted after 16 weeks following the haze.

Through these coordinated efforts, animal welfare groups and government agencies seek to mitigate the immediate and lasting impacts of recurring haze episodes on Singapore’s animal populations.