Man fined $2,750 for operating pet shop without licence, had 27 caged parrots at home

Tan Lai Hock, 47, was fined $2,750 in court yesterday (Nov 15) for operating a pet shop without a licence.

In September 2017, the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) acted on feedback that alleged poor living conditions of birds in a Jurong West flat and illegal sale of the birds.

An inspection of the flat, which Tan owns, led to the discovery of 27 caged parrots.

Although no compromise in animal welfare was detected, it was found that Tan had been breeding and selling parrots without a pet shop licence.

A pet shop licence is required to display any animal, including birds, for sale.

Anyone found guilty of operating an unlicensed pet shop is liable to a maximum fine of $5,000.