Taipei City Government

With the approach of the nine-day-long Chinese New Year holiday, the Animal Protection Office (APO) offers pet owners three tips on choosing pet boarding and care services, helping them plan their vacation away from home without their furkids.

APO recommends looking up certified dog boarding facilities published on APO’s Chinese website (www.tcapo.gov.taipei). These businesses comply with standards set by the Regulation Governing the Management of Specific Pet Businesses. (Reservation during the CNY holiday should be made in advance)

Businesses found to be operating illegally will be fined NT$50,000 to NT$250,000 for violating the Animal Protection Act. However, current regulations only apply to canines; no rules have yet been enacted for cats, rabbits, or other kinds of pets.

Pet owners are also urged to ensure that their furkids have been implanted with microchips and adequately vaccinated against infectious animal diseases (such as rabies) to reduce the risk of pets going missing or contracting illnesses.

In light of a rising number of pet boarding related disputes following the CNY holiday, APO reminds pet owners to sign contracts with businesses regarding the ways of how their pets will be treated, thereby protecting the rights of both sides. Pet owners should also provide as much information as possible about their furry companions’ disposition, history of illness, eating habits, among others.