Reason for Non-inclusion of Rabbits in Recent Revision of Licensing for Pet Businesses

Mr Muhamad Faisal Bin Abdul Manap asked the Minister for National Development (a) why are rabbits not included in the recent revision of licensing for pet businesses; and (b) whether AVA will consider the inclusion of rabbits.

Mr Lawrence Wong: AVA takes a risk-based approach in the licensing of animals as pets. Hence it requires licensing for dogs, which are the most common cause of transmission of rabies from animals to humans. For rabbits, AVA requires pet shops to do pre-sale screenings to assess and ensure that their customers will be suitable pet owners. Following the recent revisions to pet shop and pet farm licensing conditions pertaining to dogs and cats, AVA will continue to work with stakeholders to review other licensing conditions, including those related to rabbits.