14-10-2023 (SINGAPORE) The National Parks Board (NParks) in Singapore has announced plans to establish a veterinary council to regulate the standards and practices of veterinary professionals while ensuring the welfare of animals. This council is expected to serve approximately 1,000 to 1,500 professionals in the veterinary sector, including veterinarians, veterinary nurses, and technicians.
The idea for a professional body for the veterinary sector in Singapore was explored in 2021, with a review initiated to enhance standards and address gaps in the field. Senior Minister of State for National Development, Tan Kiat How, made the announcement of the veterinary council during the Singapore Vet Show at the Suntec Convention Centre. Legislation will be enacted to support the council’s functions.
The council, set to be established by 2025, will comprise members from both the public and private sectors, similar to other local professional bodies. NParks stated that the council will oversee the registration of veterinary professionals, accreditation of veterinary training programs, development and review of sectoral standards, and investigation and enforcement of disciplinary cases.
The veterinary council will play a pivotal role in upholding professional standards, ensuring the welfare of animals, and recognizing the qualifications of veterinary nurses and technicians. NParks highlighted the substantial growth in the pet population in Singapore over the years, leading to an expansion of the veterinary sector’s size, scope, and complexity. The number of licensed vets has nearly quadrupled, from 121 in 2006 to 542 as of May 2023.
The council’s role will be separate from that of NParks’ Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS), which will continue to regulate veterinary clinics and animal-related businesses, safeguard animal health and welfare, and handle animal-related feedback in Singapore.
NParks conducted consultations with the veterinary sector through an online survey in early 2021 and organized focus group sessions in 2022 to address key sector challenges and enhance professional standards. The functions, roles, and responsibilities of the veterinary council will be detailed at a later date.
