🐾 Traveling to Singapore with Pets
Pet-Friendly Singapore
Singapore is increasingly pet-friendly, particularly for small dogs and cats in urban settings. From green parks to modern malls, well-behaved pets are welcome in many public spaces, though strict regulations ensure hygiene and safety. It's a compact, clean destination ideal for families traveling with pets.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Import Permit
All pets require an import permit from the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) applied for at least 15 days before arrival.
Permit costs S$20-50; includes health checks and compliance verification.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination at least 30 days before travel; must be current and documented.
For dogs and cats from rabies-free countries, no quarantine if fully compliant; otherwise, up to 30 days quarantine applies.
Microchip Requirements
ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip required, implanted before rabies vaccination.
Chip must be readable; bring scanner if needed for verification at entry.
Non-Approved Countries
Pets from high-risk rabies countries face 30-day quarantine at S$500+ costs.
Check AVS website for country classifications; additional tests like rabies titer may be required.
Restricted Breeds
Breeds like Pit Bulls, American Staffordshire Terriers banned; others may need special approval.
All dogs must be leashed in public; no breed-specific legislation but size limits in some areas.
Other Pets
Birds and small mammals require separate permits; exotic pets need CITES documentation.
Check with NParks for specific rules on reptiles and amphibians.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Singapore on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like pet beds and walking areas.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Marina Bay & Orchard): Urban hotels like Oasia Hotel Downtown allow small pets for S$50-100/night fee, with nearby parks. Chains like Ibis and Holiday Inn are often accommodating.
- Resort-Style Stays (Sentosa & East Coast): Resorts welcome pets with beach access and green spaces; fees S$30-60, ideal for relaxed pet holidays.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and serviced apartments in areas like Holland Village frequently allow pets, offering space for pets to move freely.
- Pet Resorts & Boarding: Facilities like The Animal Resort provide luxury stays for pets during family outings, with play areas and grooming.
- Campsites & Glamping: East Coast Park campsites are pet-friendly with designated areas; bring your own gear or opt for glamping tents.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end spots like Fullerton Bay Hotel offer pet amenities including welcome kits and concierge pet services.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Urban Parks & Trails
Parks like Bishan-Ang Mo Kio and Botanic Gardens welcome leashed dogs with ample green space.
Follow signage for off-leash areas; avoid crowded paths during peak hours.
Beaches & Waterfronts
East Coast Park and Sentosa beaches have pet-friendly zones for walks and swims.
Check for seasonal restrictions; clean up after pets to maintain access.
Cities & Green Spaces
Marina Bay and Orchard Road areas allow leashed pets in outdoor malls and promenades.
Many cafés have outdoor seating welcoming well-behaved pets.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Singapore's café scene includes pet-friendly spots like The Bark Park Café with dog menus.
Water bowls are common; always ask before seating with pets.
City Walking Tours
Outdoor tours in Chinatown and Little India welcome leashed small pets.
Avoid indoor attractions; focus on street-level explorations.
Cable Cars & Rides
Sentosa Cable Car allows small pets in carriers for S$5-10 extra.
Book in advance; carriers required for safety on rides.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- MRT & Buses (SMRT): Small pets in carriers travel free; larger dogs not allowed on public transport.
- Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Grab and taxis accept pets with surcharge S$5-10; request pet-friendly rides in advance.
- Taxis: Most drivers allow pets if covered; inform upfront to avoid issues.
- Rental Cars: Avis and Hertz permit pets with cleaning deposit S$50-100; book SUVs for comfort.
- Flights to Singapore: Check airline policies; Singapore Airlines allows cabin pets under 5kg. Book early and review AVS requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Cathay Pacific and Qantas accept small pets in cabin for S$100-200 each way. Larger pets in cargo with health certificates.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour clinics like Mount Pleasant Animal Medical Centre in multiple locations offer urgent care.
Consultations S$80-150; travel insurance may cover pet emergencies.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Pet Lovers Centre and Pets' Station chains stock food, meds, and accessories island-wide.
Pharmacies like Guardian carry basic pet items; bring scripts for specialized needs.
Grooming & Day Care
Services like Pawshions offer grooming and daycare for S$30-60 per session.
Book ahead in busy areas; many linked to hotels for convenience.
Pet-Sitting Services
PetBacker and local sitters provide in-home care during outings.
Hotels can recommend services; rates S$20-40/hour.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in all public areas; off-leash only in designated parks like West Coast Dog Run.
- Muzzle Requirements: Not generally required but recommended for larger dogs in crowded spaces; follow AVS guidelines.
- Waste Disposal: Strict fines S$1,000 for not cleaning up; bins and bags available everywhere.
- Beach & Water Rules: Pets allowed on leashes at East Coast Park; no swimming in restricted zones.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating often welcomes pets; keep them calm and off furniture.
- Nature Reserves: MacRitchie Reservoir allows leashed pets on trails; stay on paths to protect wildlife.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Singapore
Singapore for Families
Singapore is a family haven with world-class attractions, safe streets, and efficient infrastructure. From theme parks to interactive gardens, kids are thrilled while parents enjoy cleanliness and ease. Facilities include family restrooms, play areas, and multilingual support everywhere.
Top Family Attractions
Universal Studios Singapore (Sentosa)
Thrilling rides, shows, and characters from movies like Transformers and Minions.
Tickets S$76 adults, S$56 kids; full-day fun with height-based ride access.
Singapore Zoo & Night Safari
Open-concept zoo with animal shows and tram rides; Night Safari for nocturnal adventures.
Combo tickets S$50 adults, S$35 kids; educational and immersive experiences.
Gardens by the Bay
Supertrees, Cloud Forest dome, and Flower Dome with interactive exhibits.
Tickets S$28 adults, S$15 kids; light shows and children's gardens included.
Jurong Bird Park
World's largest bird park with feeding sessions and panoramic aviaries.
Tickets S$38 adults, S$26 kids; tram tours make it easy for families.
S.E.A. Aquarium (Sentosa)
Ocean tunnel with sharks, rays, and marine life exhibits.
Tickets S$41 adults, S$30 kids; combine with Resorts World for full day.
Science Centre Singapore
Hands-on exhibits, IMAX theater, and planetarium shows.
Tickets S$12 adults, S$8 kids; ideal for rainy days with educational fun.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Singapore on Viator. From river cruises to zoo safaris, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Marina Bay & Orchard): Hotels like Marina Bay Sands offer family suites for S$300-500/night with pools and kids' clubs.
- Resort Stays (Sentosa): Resorts World Sentosa provides all-inclusive family packages with adventure access and childcare.
- Apartment Rentals: Serviced apartments in Bugis or Chinatown for S$200-400/night with kitchens and laundry.
- Budget Family Options: Ibis Budget chains with family rooms for S$150-250/night including breakfast and play areas.
- Hostels & Guesthouses: Family pods in YHA hostels for S$100-200/night with shared facilities.
- Luxury Family Resorts: Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa with beachfront family villas and kids' programs.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Marina Bay with Kids
Gardens by the Bay, Merlion Park, and Spectra light show; kid-friendly waterfront walks.
Boat rides on Marina Reservoir add excitement for young explorers.
Sentosa with Kids
Universal Studios, beaches, and adventure cove waterpark; cable car rides.
Family segway tours and insect kingdom for interactive fun.
Orchard Road with Kids
Shopping malls with indoor playgrounds, cinemas, and food courts.
ION Orchard sky park and arcade games keep kids entertained.
Central Nature Areas
Botanic Gardens playgrounds, MacRitchie tree-top walks, and river safari.
Easy trails and picnic spots for relaxed family outings.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- MRT & Buses: Kids under 0.9m free; family packages S$10-15/day. Stations have elevators and family zones.
- City Transport: EZ-Link cards for seamless travel; stroller-friendly with priority seating.
- Car Rentals: Child seats S$10-20/day mandatory for under 1.35m; book via Hertz or Avis.
- Stroller-Friendly: Singapore's infrastructure excels with ramps, wide paths, and accessible attractions.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Hawker centers and malls offer child portions S$3-8; high chairs ubiquitous.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Din Tai Fung and local eateries with play corners and casual vibes.
- Self-Catering: NTUC FairPrice supermarkets for baby food and diapers; wet markets for fresh items.
- Snacks & Treats: Ya Kun kaya toast and ice kacang for quick, kid-approved bites.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In malls, MRT stations, and attractions with nursing areas.
- Pharmacies: Watsons and Guardian stock essentials; English-speaking staff assist.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels arrange sitters S$20-30/hour; apps like Helpling for reliability.
- Medical Care: KK Women's and Children's Hospital for pediatrics; clinics island-wide.
♿ Accessibility in Singapore
Accessible Travel
Singapore excels in accessibility with barrier-free transport, tactile paths, and inclusive attractions. The Land Transport Authority ensures universal design, making it easy for travelers with disabilities to navigate.
Transportation Accessibility
- MRT & Buses: All stations and buses fully accessible with lifts, ramps, and audio announcements.
- City Transport: Low-floor buses and priority queues for wheelchairs; apps like Be My Friend for navigation.
- Taxis: Trans-Cab accessible taxis with ramps; book via app for wheelchair vehicles.
- Airports: Changi Airport offers full assistance, prayer rooms, and accessible lounges.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Gardens: Gardens by the Bay and National Museum with ramps, braille guides, and wheelchair loans.
- Theme Parks: Sentosa attractions like Universal Studios provide accessible queues and rides.
- Nature & Parks: Botanic Gardens with smooth paths and sensory trails for the visually impaired.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers, wide doorways, and ground-floor options.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Year-round tropical climate; avoid rainy seasons (Nov-Jan, Jun-Sep) for outdoor activities.
Year-end holidays for festive lights; shoulder months for fewer crowds.
Budget Tips
Go City Pass for attraction discounts; hawker centers save on meals S$5-10/person.
Public transport cards reduce costs; free playgrounds in parks.
Language
English official; multilingual signs and staff in tourist areas.
Basic Mandarin or Malay helpful; locals accommodating to families.
Packing Essentials
Light clothing, rain gear, sunscreen; comfortable shoes for walking.
Pet owners: vaccination records, leash, waste bags, and portable water bowl.
Useful Apps
Grab for rides, MyTransport for transit, and PetBacker for pet services.
Changi App for airport navigation and Visit Singapore for deals.
Health & Safety
Singapore ultra-safe; tap water safe. Clinics everywhere for minor issues.
Emergency: 995 ambulance, 999 police; comprehensive health insurance recommended.