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They say Berlin has a dog for every human resident, and that there are more canines than trees in the city. China is certainly not far behind where puppy love is concerned, especially in the major cities.
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 A city puppy gets a walk. Wang Jing / China Daily |
But as its population shifts toward the urban centers, responsible pet ownership has become a major concern.
If you want to buy or adopt a pet in China, how and where should you start? We asked some questions and had them answered by two experts we specially invited as guest columnists ? Mary Peng from Beijing's International Center for Veterinary Services and Edmond Kan from Shanghai's G3 Dog Training Academy.
What is the first thing a dog-owner should know in China?
Edmond says: The first thing a dog owner should know is the law, and understand what should and should not be done. Dogs in Shanghai need to be licensed. In the city center, the yearly fee is 2,000 yuan and 1,000 yuan in the suburbs. If you want a pet dog, ask your local police station for more detailed information.
The law also requires dogs to be on-leash when walking in public areas. Laws are updated over time, so be aware and abide by the latest changes.
Mary says: The environment for pets in China is very different from that of most other countries. Rabies is endemic in China and claims about 300 human lives each month. Over 95 percent of the infections are transmitted by dogs.
All dogs are required by law to be vaccinated against rabies annually at a legally designated animal vaccination hospital. China does not recognize rabies vaccinations from other countries. Beijing dog owners, including diplomats, must register their dogs at their local police station and renew the licenses annually. Once registered, dogs are eligible for a free annual rabies vaccination at a designated animal hospital in the district of registration.
Where can you go to buy a healthy puppy?
Edmond says: There is no one place where someone can go and buy healthy puppies as there is simply not enough information. But there are a few things to consider.
Begin by choosing a breeder you can trust and have confidence in, namely someone who has experience, an interest in the breed and a genuine care about where the puppies are going. The last place I would look for a puppy is a pet store or market. Breeders selling at these places often have no reputation or credibility, so avoid them.
When choosing a puppy, it is a good idea to ask to see the pedigree. Having parents, and grandparents, that have been tested to be healthy and x-rayed for hip dysplasia, will make it less likely that your puppy will get bad hips or be generally unhealthy.
Mary says: Very often, the healthiest puppies are those adopted from the many shelters and animal rescue organizations in your communities. Many beautiful, housebroken and healthy animals are available for free or low-cost adoption fees. Before you buy, please consider that the animal sales industry in China is new and largely unregulated.
Anyone with a male and female animal can breed them to produce a litter and can then call themselves "breeders." Many of the animals sold in pet shops, animal markets, by sidewalk vendors and by so-called "breeders" are produced solely for profit. Breeders are not subject to any certification or legal supervision to ensure the health and safety of both animals and buyers.
Shelter animals are often there because many owners relocate and cannot take their pets with them. If you are interested in adopting a pet, please contact the International Center for Veterinary Services (ICVS) at www.ICVSASIA.com. ICVS will help you identify where you can adopt a pet.
Are there obedience or training classes for dogs in China?
Edmond says: I've visited many dog training schools in Shanghai and there are also a lot of schools that can help to teach your dog basic commands. A dog can learn these tricks in five or 10 minutes. Some schools encourage you to leave your dog but as an owner, you should learn how to train your own dog because your dog must learn to listen to you. So the best training is done by you.
You should also know that even if your dog can sit, stay, down and jump over your back; it doesn't mean he or she will not soil the house, bark uncontrollably, bite your hands and ankles, jump on you or pull on the leash. These are problems that most pet dog owners need help and classes for.
To learn more about dog training, correct bad doggie behavior or for tips on having a healthier, happier dog go to www.guaigougou.com.cn for information and suggestions.
Mary says: Obedience training classes are available in Beijing. Owners should first contact the training organization and meet and visit with the trainers. Check to ensure the organization is operating legally.
If your dog is expressing abnormal behavior or aggression, bring your dog to your veterinarian first for a full examination to rule out any potential medical issues.
Interview your trainer and find out more about their knowledge and experience with canine obedience training. Discuss the training or behavior issues you wish to address.
China Daily
