Update (20 July, 1.44pm): NParks has informed the operator to cease using the machine as of 18 July while they evaluate the product and the safety of using it on animals.
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On 12 July, a pet care service opened up in Holland Drive with an unexpected twist — a machine auto washer rather than a human pet groomer.
Source: Just4Pets AutoWash on Google Maps
The service, named Just4Pets AutoWash, advertised itself as having Singapore’s first all-in-one pet washer, conditioner, and dryer.
Pet owners would leash their dog inside a washer compartment and close the door.
Source: just4pets_autowash on Instagram
After pressing start, the machine would begin washing the dog, applying soap and conditioner.
Source: just4pets_autowash on Instagram
According to the Instagram page, the wash cycle includes:
Netizens reacted in horror in the comments, criticising the auto washer.
One questioned the pet’s safety inside, asking how the machine prevented soap from getting into the dog’s eyes, nose, and ears.
Source: Instagram
Another commenter compared it to putting a child into a washer.
Source: Instagram
Just4Pets subsequently posted another video, claiming that the autowash is safe for pets.
“From gentle wash cycles to pet-friendly shampoos, conditioner, and drying, we ensure a stress-free experience for your beloved companion,” reads the caption.
Source: just4pets_autowash on Instagram
In order to prove it, an employee climbed into the autowash compartment herself, waving to the camera from inside during a rinse.
Source: just4pets_autowash on Instagram
A worried netizen claimed that even if safe, the autowash process is “clearly going to traumatise and stress pets out”.
Source: Instagram
Speaking to MS News, the owner of an Irish West Highland Terrier named Jacob (@jacobthewestie on Instagram) said she was appalled to come across the auto washer service, saying it was akin to treating your dog like laundry.
“This would be insanely stressful — and cause unnecessary stress for your pet,” she added, noting the combination of loud noises and an enclosed space.
Additionally, she was concerned about the possibility of water jets spraying directly into the ears of dogs, which increases the chance of ear infections.
When asked if she would ever try an autowash, the owner refused, saying she did not want to risk her pet’s safety or comfort.
“Grooming should be a gentle, hands-on experience with your pet and the groomer,” she explained.
“A good groomer knows how to calm a nervous pet and can stop the process if the animal is too stressed. That level of care just isn’t possible with a machine.”
Source: J. Balla Photography on Unsplash. Image for illustration purposes only.
An anonymous professional pet groomer who shared her opinion with MS News echoes this point.
“With a machine, you can’t determine skin issues and adjust yourself to deliver the ideal results,” she said, noting that a professional pet salon would never use such a contraption.
She also questioned whether such a service is “humane”, and raised concerns over potential mechanical malfunctions.
In a further statement to MS News, Just4Pets shared that they were inspired to start the service after feedback from clients at their grooming salons.
“We regularly receive feedback from paw-rents that it is difficult to secure a grooming appointment, especially on short notice, after working hours and weekends,” they said, adding that these clients requested for a service that was 24 hours and also gives them full visibility of the process.
According to Just4Pets, the process of coming up with the autowash involved hundreds of trials for safety, and to make it appropriate for a variety of breeds and temperaments.
They added that the autowash is disinfected before and after each session for hygiene, and to minimise discomfort, the water pressure is kept low and gentle.
“The process is designed to be gentle and non-stressful,” said Just4Pets, noting that the drying sound is nothing different from a traditional dryer.
The company acknowledged that it has seen the negative feedback online, but they still invite the public to experience the service first hand.
“We always welcome constructive feedback, especially after you have had the chance to experience the AutoWash.”
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has also given its take on the new service.
“The SPCA urges pet owners to exercise utmost caution in deciding to use auto pet wash services,” said Mr Walter Leong, Executive Director of the SPCA, who added that the services may not be in the best interests of animal welfare.
“The washing and drying process takes place in a small, enclosed space, which can frighten pets due to its unfamiliar sight and noises.”
Source: just4pets_autowash on Instagram
Mr Leong pointed out that human groomers can adjust actions based on a pet’s reactions.
Meanwhile, the autowash cannot ensure that water and shampoo do not enter the pet’s nose and eyes.
While the machine has an emergency stop button, the SPCA highlighted that proper activation depends entirely on the pet owner’s vigilance.
Source: just4pets_autowash on Instagram
Observing from outside, they may not have a clear view of their pet’s discomfort. The stop button is also liable to technical malfunctions, with potentially serious consequences.
The SPCA strongly recommends entrusting a pet’s care to reliable pet groomers.
As salons could also potentially use auto washers, they further advised pet owners to enquire about the grooming process in greater detail to ensure their pet’s safety.
Also read: Cat dies at Pasir Panjang pet groomer after alleged negligence, SPCA & AVS investigating
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Featured image adapted from just4pets_autowash on Instagram.