A 50-year-old woman, Julia Nicole Moss, was fined $21,500 after authorities found she was unlawfully keeping 79 dogs – 78 poodles and one golden retriever – in her landed home, far exceeding Singapore’s legal limit of three dogs per household.
Key Facts
- None of the 79 dogs were licensed as of Oct 7, 2024.
- 71 dogs were unmicrochipped.
- NParks described the situation as “unprecedented in scope and severity.”
- Moss repeatedly failed to comply with AVS/NParks directives over two years, despite frequent inspections and guidance.
- She claimed she was planning to relocate to Dubai with the dogs but gave no proof, repeatedly citing “lack of funds.”
Investigations & Non-Compliance
- Issue first surfaced in June 2022 when a law firm (acting for a bank repossessing the property) alerted AVS.
- NParks conducted at least four inspections in 2022, discovering 65 unlicensed dogs initially.
- Moss was declared bankrupt in July 2023.
- In May 2024, NParks ordered her to microchip all dogs within 90 days — she did not comply.
- In Sept 2024, AVS officers visited the home and microchipped 71 dogs at a cost of $1,420, which remains unpaid.
Eviction & Attempts to Track the Dogs
- Moss’ family faced eviction from Oct 2024; NParks repeatedly asked for their relocation address.
- Moss left the property on Jan 25, 2025 without informing authorities, taking all 79 dogs with her.
- In April 2025, NParks located her via public feedback at a rental home in Sembawang.
Outcome
- Moss later surrendered 37 dogs; NParks seized the remaining dogs in July due to her continued non-cooperation.
- Three dogs were returned to her after she finally obtained valid licences.
Possible Consequences
If she fails to pay the $21,500 fine, Moss will have to serve one month, four weeks and 24 days in jail.
