Action for Singapore Dogs and SOSD are separate organisations with their own application processes, fees and support arrangements. Both offer routes to adopting local mixed-breed dogs. Start with the individual dog and what your household can provide, then compare the commitments each organisation requires.
ASD and SOSD are different organisations
Action for Singapore Dogs and SOSD have separate application teams and adoption agreements. Applying to one does not register you with the other. Read the ASD adoption procedure and SOSD adoption process before deciding which route to pursue.
Both can help you explore adopting a Singapore Special, but a dog's care needs, housing eligibility and the support available matter more than the organisation's name. Our adoption hub also covers SPCA and other routes.
How to adopt from ASD, step by step
Browse dogs, select those you are interested in and complete the application ASD sends you. The rehoming team assesses whether it has a suitable match. Shortlisted applicants are contacted within two weeks for a discussion, followed by a viewing and bonding session with the household. This is a response window, not the total adoption timeline.
ASD requires photos and videos of your home to assess security and suitability, and may require safety changes. It can also conduct home visits. Discuss safe doors, windows and balconies before the dog arrives.
Adult dogs have a two-week homestay. You sign a Homestay Agreement accepting responsibility while the dog is in your care, and the counsellor stays in contact. This is a real care commitment. If you proceed, ASD then collects the adoption agreement and fee. Puppies have no homestay and adoption is finalised immediately. ASD does not rehome puppies to HDB residents.
The ASD fee and adoption package
The current ASD package page still lists S$400 for local cross-breed dogs and S$600 for pedigrees, effective 15 January 2024 and checked on 23 September 2026. Retaining the effective date explains the source; it does not mean the fee was last checked in 2024.
The package includes a health check, vaccinations up to adoption, microchipping and sterilisation. If sterilisation remains outstanding, ASD arranges it with its appointed vets and does not cover an independently chosen vet. Ask for records and a follow-up plan. A package is not a promise that a dog is medically sorted or will need no further treatment.
For a sterilised animal within the first three cats and/or dogs owned, AVS lists S$15 for one year, S$25 for two years or S$35 for a lifetime licence, before the 10% rebate for GIRO, online or AXS payment. A lifetime licence does not need annual renewal. Renew time-limited licences before expiry. AVS fees are separate. First-time cat or dog licence applicants must complete the free online Pet Ownership Course before applying through PALS. Allow about 20 to 30 minutes. This course is separate from dog obedience training. ASD's ADORE conditions specifically require a lifetime licence, listed at S$31.50 after rebate.
How SOSD differs
Complete the adopter sign-up form and approximately one-hour pre-adoption briefing. SOSD then screens applicants, arranges a house visit and dog interactions, and explains preparation before homestay. The house visit and meeting dogs are separate steps.
Homestay lasts at least one week and costs S$150. Finalising the adoption costs a further S$250, making S$400 across those stages. The S$250 adoption figure alone understates that commitment. Ask about training, licensing and outstanding veterinary care before comparing totals.
ADORE adopters attend at least one session with an SOSD-recommended trainer before adoption is finalised and must then complete the required training certification. Private-housing adopters taking a dog under two must complete training during homestay or within one month of adoption.
Which route is right for your household
Ask for medical records, current medication, outstanding treatment, vaccination and sterilisation arrangements, grooming needs, mobility, toileting and behavioural observations. Discuss likely follow-up costs and who provides support. Age, size and an adoption health check do not guarantee easy care or future health.
Confirm appointment arrangements, the adoption agreement and support available if the placement becomes difficult. ASD visits are by appointment at The Animal Lodge, 59 Sungei Tengah Road, Singapore 699014. For an HDB adoption, use our Project ADORE guide and have the partner confirm the individual dog's eligibility.
Explore our adoption listings, then check availability with the organisation. Keep time for repeat meetings where needed, and budget for everyday care using the cost calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between ASD and SOSD?
How much does it cost to adopt from ASD?
How long does the ASD adoption process take?
Where is ASD located?
Does SOSD require a pre-adoption briefing?
What training is required?
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