HDB resident: ‘Cats not allowed yet gigantic dogs allowed, owner & dog even occupy whole lift space’

A member of the public found it funny that cats were not allowed in Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats, but “gigantic dogs” that “occupy the whole lift space” were permitted.

The post has since garnered comments from netizens who said there was no reason to complain as long as the dog doesn’t cause a public nuisance. Furthermore, there is a reason why cats are prohibited in HDB flats.

“LOL, cats are not allowed yet some people keeping this kind of gigantic dogs in HDB. Size so big that owner and dog will occupy the whole lift space,” wrote a Facebook page Complaint Singapore member on Thursday (Aug 11).

Attached was a photo of a German Shepherd and its guardian taking a walk.

With over 290 comments to date, members from the online community explained that dogs of such size are often not a danger.

“Dogs this size are usually more quiet, obedient and less noisy than a smaller breed. As long as they are not a danger, please leave them alone!” wrote Facebook user Jacq HC in a comment with 80 likes.

“Pretty sure gigantic dogs don’t bark often. It’s those tiny Chihuahuas that will bark bark non-stop like a rooster,” added another netizen.

Facebook user Reine Jahan Batad also said, “Correct me if I’m wrong, but some big dogs are HDB approved and like everyone says, they are mostly retired Singapore special. When it comes to cats with HDB, I keep seeing dead cats in my wall, mostly fell from heights as most owners don’t put safely grills in their windows.”

“Dogs of that size are usually rescued from shelters… Don’t be quick to judge,” advised Facebook user Bryan Chihan.

“Actually, Complainant, please offer and direct your complaint to the authorities and ask them why,” said another netizen.

“Please do not use dogs as a comparison here. They are innocent. Please know that stray dogs are often put to sleep while cats are allowed to roam around freely. And this is also as unfair.”

According to the HDB website, dog owners must have their pet licensed by the National Parks Board Animal And Veterinary Services.

“You need not seek HDB’s approval to keep a dog, as long as it is of an approved breed,” HDB notes.

Meanwhile, cats are not allowed in flats.

“They are generally difficult to contain within the flat. When allowed to roam indiscriminately, they tend to shed fur and defecate or urinate in public areas, and also make caterwauling sounds, which can inconvenience your neighbours.”

However, those who really wish to keep a feline can consider an HDB flat in Chong Pang at Yishun.

Property website PropertyGuru noted in an article that since October 2012, about 120 households were allowed to raise one cat each under a pilot scheme named “Love Cats” as long as the cats are microchipped, sterilised and kept indoors. /TISG

Jamus Lim says he’s in favour of allowing cats in HDBs, but adds the government has ‘refused to budge’