World Veterinary Day: Meet Singapore’s unsung heroes of pet care

Ahead of World Veterinary Day, ST meets Singapore’s unsung heroes of pet care. ST PHOTOS: NG SOR LUAN, KEVIN LIM, BRIAN TEO

Joanne Soh

UPDATED Apr 20, 2025, 11:20 AM

Thanks for sharing!

SINGAPORE – World Veterinary Day is celebrated on April 26, recognising the invaluable contributions and essential work of veterinarians and other animal healthcare professionals.

According to a report by data analytics company Euromonitor International , Singapore’s pet dog population was around 114,000 in 2023, up by almost 3 per cent from 2019. The pet cat population hovers around 94,000 in 2024, a jump of almost 10 per cent from 2019.

A 2023 report from the Singapore Veterinary Association (SVA) stated that there were 474 licensed veterinarians, with a significant proportioncurrently not working full-time.

The attrition rate remains high due to burnout because of long working hours, short break times, compassion fatigue, psychological and emotional stress and increasing pet owner expectations. 

The vets who spoke with The Straits Times stressed that resilience is an important trait in their profession.