From a Volunteer's Heart: Why We Are So "Strict" About Adoption

If you’ve ever tried to adopt a pet in Singapore, you’ve probably encountered "The Process." You fell in love with a pair of soulful eyes on an Instagram post—maybe a fluffy Japanese Spitz, an elegant Poodle, or a sturdy Singapore Special—only to be met with a long questionnaire, interviews, and house visits.

I know how it feels. Before I became a volunteer, I wondered why it felt like I was being interrogated just to give a dog a home. Now, I’m the one holding the clipboard. I want to be honest with you about why the bar is set so high. It’s because we are the only thing standing between this dog and another tragedy.

The Shadows You Don't See

When you see a dog at an adoption drive, you see a tail wag. When we look at them, we see the ghosts of their past. We see Huskies that were abandoned because owners didn't realize their immense exercise needs, or Poodles surrendered because their grooming became too expensive.

Many have spent years caged in filth, chained to rusty gates, or found emaciated. Our local Singapore Specials (Mongrels) often bear the brunt of this, having survived the harsh life of a stray or the trauma of culling. We see the scars of abuse—dogs that flinch at a raised hand because, for years, a hand only meant pain.

The Science of the "Match"

Our goal isn't just to find "good people." Our goal is to find the most suitable home based on what we know about that specific dog.

As volunteers, we spend months learning their triggers. We know if a Japanese Spitz has developed a barking habit out of anxiety, or if a Husky has a high prey drive that makes them unsuitable for homes with cats. We can't rely on "luck" or a "sixth sense." An animal’s entire future is in our hands. We owe it to these animals to be certain that their next move is their last move.

Understanding the Adoption Fee: It’s Not a Price Tag

A common question we get is: "If you want to save lives, why are you charging me to adopt?"

Whether you are adopting a purebred Poodle or a resilient Singapore Special, you are not "buying" a dog. Adoption fees in Singapore generally range from $300 to $1,000, and every cent is a donation. AWGs face rising costs for vet bills, rental, and boarding. Your fee funds the rescue of the next dog still waiting on the streets. It also serves as a proof of financial stability—ensuring you can provide for them if an emergency arises.

Have You Considered Fostering?

If you aren't ready for a 15-year commitment, fostering is a beautiful way to help. Many people don't realize that for fostering, most AWGs and shelters cover almost every expense, from medical bills to food. You provide the safe space and the love; we provide the rest. You are the bridge to their forever home.

My Advice: Cast a Wide Net

If you are looking to adopt or foster, my biggest advice is this: Indicate your interest to as many AWGs as possible. Every group has different dogs with different personalities. Just because you aren't a match for a specific Husky at one shelter doesn't mean the perfect Singapore Special isn't waiting for you at another. Don't be discouraged by a "no." Keep reaching out.

A Final Plea for Empathy

We aren't trying to stop you from adopting. We are trying to make sure that for this dog, who has already survived being chained, caged, and discarded—you are the hero they have been waiting for.