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Vietnam – Animal Welfare and Cultural Issues

Vietnam is a country located in Southeast Asia, known for its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. As pet ownership continues to rise in Vietnam, it is essential to understand the prevailing attitude towards animals and pets, the laws governing pet ownership, major animal charities in the country, pet supply stores available, and cultural taboos associated with different types of animals.

The Prevailing Attitude to Animals and Pets in Vietnam

The prevailing attitude towards animals and pets in Vietnam is generally positive. Pets, particularly dogs and cats, are becoming more popular in urban areas, and many Vietnamese people provide them with love and affection. In addition to domesticated animals, many Vietnamese people also have a deep appreciation for wildlife and nature.

However, traditional attitudes towards animals in Vietnam can be different from those in the West. For example, dogs are often kept outside and used for guarding or as a source of meat. Additionally, there is a tradition of using animals for medicinal purposes.

Pet Ownership in Vietnam

The laws regarding pet ownership in Vietnam are not as strict as in some other countries. While there are regulations governing pet ownership, enforcement can be lax, and there is a lack of education on responsible pet ownership.

In Vietnam, pet owners are required to register their pets with the local government and obtain a vaccination certificate. However, there is no requirement for pet owners to spay or neuter their pets. Additionally, there are no regulations regarding the ownership of exotic pets.

Major Animal Charities in Vietnam

Vietnam is home to several major animal charities that work to promote animal welfare and rescue and care for animals in need. One of the largest and most well-known animal charities in Vietnam is the Vietnam Animal Welfare Organization (VAWO). This organization was founded in 2011 and works to promote animal welfare through education, advocacy, and rescue efforts. They operate a shelter in Ho Chi Minh City and provide veterinary care and rehabilitation for animals in need.


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Another major animal charity in Vietnam is Animal Asia. This organization focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating bears that have been kept in captivity for their bile. They operate a bear sanctuary in Vietnam and work to end the practice of bear bile farming in the country.

Pet Supply Stores in Vietnam

Vietnam has several pet supply stores that cater to pet owners’ needs. One of the largest and most well-known pet supply stores in Vietnam is Pet Me. Pet Me has several stores across Vietnam and offers a wide range of pet products, including food, toys, bedding, and accessories.

Other pet supply stores in Vietnam include PetCity, PetZone, and Pet Lover Vietnam. For online shopping, Pet Me and Tiki are popular choices that offer home delivery of pet supplies.

Cultural Sensitivities Towards Animals in Vietnam

In Vietnam, there are cultural taboos and sensitivities associated with different types of animals. For example, dogs are traditionally viewed as a source of meat in some regions of Vietnam, and there is a stigma associated with owning dogs as pets. Additionally, there is a tradition of using animals for medicinal purposes, which has led to the illegal trade of endangered species such as pangolins and rhinoceros.

Another cultural taboo in Vietnam is the ownership of exotic pets. While there are no regulations regarding the ownership of exotic pets, there is a growing movement to ban the ownership of exotic pets due to concerns about animal welfare and public safety.

Vietnam is a country with a growing pet culture and a strong appreciation for wildlife and nature. The prevailing attitude towards animals and pets is generally positive, but traditional attitudes towards animals can be different from those in the West. Vietnam has regulations governing pet ownership, but enforcement can be lax, and there is a lack of education on responsible pet ownership. Vietnam is home to several major animal charities and pet supply stores that work to promote animal welfare and provide pet owners with the resources they need to care for their pets.

While there are cultural taboos and sensitivities associated with different types of animals, there is a growing movement towards greater awareness and respect for animal welfare in Vietnam. With education and advocacy, it is possible to promote responsible pet ownership and animal welfare in Vietnam.