Your pet companion 🐾🦮
Welcoming a pet into your life is an exciting journey—but it can also be overwhelming. Whether you’re an expat navigating Vietnam’s regulations or a local pet owner caring for your first furry friend, ask PWH to guide you.
Our experienced team – made up of experienced pet parents, industry experts and certified veterinarians – understands the joys and challenges of pet ownership in Vietnam. We share practical advice, trusted resources and dedicated support to help you make the best decisions for your pet.
Chat with us on Zalo!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🐕 Pet Care & Health
Check for obvious causes
- Fleas, ticks, or other skin parasites.
- Recent exposure to new shampoos, cleaning chemicals, or plants.
- Scratches, wet dermatitis, or rash.
Treat immediately to reduce discomfort
- Prevent pets from scratching/biting too much (can use anti-lick collar – Elizabeth).
- Keep the skin area clean and dry.
- DO NOT give human medicine to animals.
Take to the vet as soon as possible.
Pet sterilization must ensure health safety principles: body temperature check, vaccination, blood test,... Surgery must be performed after assessment.
- Spaying and neutering services are available at veterinary clinics in Vietnam; you can find the nearest clinic to do it.
- Service costs range from 3 million to more than 8 million VND depending on the veterinary facility you choose.
- After surgery, pets need to be cared for for 3-10 days to fully heal the wound (can be treated with medication at home or sent to the clinic), and must wear an anti-lick collar (Elizabeth). Currently, the surgical method has been improved, can use cosmetic stitches (no need to cut stitches), or depending on the needs, the veterinarian will advise more.
✈️ Travel & Relocation
- Singapore Airlines allows pets in the cabin (≤7 kg including cage), but this does NOT apply to all aircraft types or routes. Please check specifically for SGN–SIN–JFK.
- Korean Air – Pets weighing ≤7 kg (including cage) are accepted in the cabin. The SGN–ICN–JFK route is available.
- Asiana Airlines – Similar to Korean Air, allows pets in the cabin weighing up to 7 kg.
- Turkish Airlines – Pets weighing ≤8 kg (including cage) are allowed in the cabin. The SGN–IST–JFK route is suitable.
🚫 Airlines do NOT allow small dogs in the cabin (except for service dogs).
- Japan Airlines (JAL) – Pets are not allowed in the cabin (only in checked baggage or cargo).
- Qatar Airways – No dogs allowed in the cabin (only falcons are permitted on certain routes).
- Emirates – No dogs allowed in the cabin (service dogs only).
- Cathay Pacific – Pets must be transported as cargo and are not allowed in the cabin (except for service dogs).
- United Airlines – Some international flights allow pets in the cabin, but this generally does NOT apply from Vietnam; usually requires a layover in Japan or Singapore.
- Vietnam Airlines offers pet transportation services, but pets must be checked in as baggage to the US; they are NOT allowed in the cabin.
📋 Important notes before booking tickets
- Weight limit: Most Asian/European airlines limit luggage to 7–8 kg (including the baggage claim area).
- Cage dimensions: Must fit under the seat (approximately 40×25×25 cm, depending on the manufacturer).
- Book early: Only 1–2 pets are allowed in the cabin per trip → advance booking required.
- Documentation: When entering the United States, a health certificate, rabies vaccination certificate, and microchip implantation are required.
- Restricted breeds: Short-faced breeds (Pug, Bulldog, etc.) are often restricted due to respiratory issues.
✈️ By plane (fastest and safest for long distances)
- Vietnam Airlines is the best choice.
- Large dogs : must travel as checked baggage (pressurized cargo compartment).
- Cats : if under 6 kg (including cage), they can travel in the cabin; if heavier, they must be checked in.
- The direct flight from HAN to SGN takes only about 2 hours → reducing stress for pets.
- Pet transportation services must be booked in advance .
👉 Bamboo Airways / VietJet Air : stricter policies – usually only allowing pets as cargo, not in the cabin.
Request:
- A health certificate from a veterinarian (issued within 7–10 days before the flight).
- Vaccination record (including rabies vaccination is mandatory).
- The carrier meets IATA standards (large enough for the dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably).
- Check in early (at least 2 hours before your flight).
🔗 Vietnam Airlines – Traveling with Pets
🚆 By train (slower, less comfortable)
- Vietnam Railways prohibits pets in passenger cabins to maintain hygiene and avoid disturbing other passengers. 🔗 Vietnam Railway – FAQs
- In fact, some people do bring pets on the train, but they usually have to leave them in the luggage/cargo carriage , not in the passenger compartment.
- Not suitable for large dogs due to potentially hot and noisy conditions.
- Travel time of ~30+ hours → can easily cause stress for pets.
🚚 By using pet transportation services
Some companies in Vietnam offer door-to-door service:
- PetFly
- Saigon Pet Relocation / VietAir Cargo Pets
- VietJet Air – Traveling with Pets
👉 These companies handle everything: booking tickets, preparing documents, arranging transportation, and providing pick-up and drop-off services. ➡️ This is the most convenient option but comes at a higher cost.
🐾 Please note the preparation
- Cage acclimatization: Allow your pet to stay in the cage for at least a week beforehand to reduce anxiety.
- Food and drink: Do not feed 4–6 hours before the trip, but continue to provide water.
- Comfort: put blankets and familiar toys in the cage.
- Labels: Write your contact information and affix the label “LIVE ANIMAL” to the cage.
- Upon arrival: let your pet rest in a quiet place and give them plenty of water.
✅ Best option: Book a direct Vietnam Airlines flight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City . Large dogs can travel as checked baggage, cats can travel in the cabin (if under weight limit) or as checked baggage.
🏠 Daily life with pets
🏨 1. Pet Hotels & Accommodation Services
- In major cities (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang), there are many pet hotels/cities.
- Some popular pet hotels (please read the notes before deciding to use a third-party service).
- Services typically include: private room, feeding, daily walks, and even spa/grooming services.
- Some high-end hotels even have CCTV cameras so you can monitor your pets remotely. 👉 Note: It's advisable to book early (at least 1-2 months before Tet) as demand is very high.
🏡 2. Pet sitter
- Hire someone to come to your house 1–2 times a day to feed, walk, and play with your dog.
- Suitable for dogs that are prone to anxiety when in new environments.
- You can find them on Facebook platforms or groups in Vietnam.
🚶 3. Dog walking and day-sitting service
- Some places offer daytime dog sitting services with play areas or just walking.
- Suitable if you have family members at home to take care of feeding but need assistance with mobility.
👨👩👧👦 4. Family or friends provide care.
- A reliable option if you have relatives/friends who can babysit your dog at your home or theirs.
- Make sure they understand the dog's feeding schedule, exercise needs, and health issues.
🏥 5. Send to the veterinary clinic
- Some clinics offer accommodation services during the Tet holiday.
- Advantages: Medical care is available immediately when needed.
- Disadvantage: The space may be less "comfortable" compared to pet hotels.
📝 Preparations before sending your dog away during Tet (Lunar New Year)
- Vaccinations: ensure your dog has received all necessary vaccinations (rabies, distemper, parvovirus, kennel cough, etc.).
- Book early: many places are fully booked 1–2 months before Tet.
- Try a short stay: if possible, let the dog stay for a day to get used to the environment.
- Familiar items: bring a blanket, toy, or old shirt that smells like you.
- Food & Instructions: Prepare sufficient familiar food and clearly label the feeding/medication instructions.
✅ Best recommendation: If you'll be away for a few days during the 2026 Lunar New Year, book a reputable pet hotel early and let your dog try staying there a day beforehand to get used to it.
🐶 Ho Chi Minh City
- Dog Paradise: https://dogparadise.vn
- Pet Pro: https://petpro.com.vn
- Cityzoo Pet Hotel: https://cityzoo.vn
🐾 Hanoi
- Pet City: https://petcity.vn
- Lolipet Hotel: https://lolipet.net
- AZPET Hotel: https://azpet.com.vn
📌 Note: This is just a reference link. You should check reviews, specific services, and contact them directly to confirm the Tet holiday policy before making a reservation.
1. Pet stores & pet supermarket chains
- Some shops have litter boxes (artificial/fake grass) available and can order real grass upon request.
- For example:
- My Pet – Top 8 Dog Litter Trays.
- Lazada.vn – product: Jingpiao artificial grass dog toilet mat (with non-slip tray, suitable for puppies).
👉 When searching, you can ask for the product by name: dog grass toilet, real grass pee pad, real grass litter tray for dogs .
2. Online platform (most convenient)
- Shopee, Lazada, Tiki : Type search keywords:
- “real grass for dogs to go to the toilet”
- “real grass potty pad for dogs”
- Facebook Marketplace & Pet Groups : There are small retailers offering real grass delivery with weekly replacement in Ho Chi Minh City.
3. Specialized services
- Some startups in Ho Chi Minh City provide real grass trays with regular grass replacement service (weekly/2 weeks).
- You can search with the keyword: "dog grass cleaning service HCM" .
📌 Note before buying
- Tray size : choose according to dog weight (dogs <10kg use tray ~50x60 cm, large dogs need larger trays).
- Grass replacement : Real grass typically lasts 1–2 weeks indoors; choose a service that offers refills.
- Training : Place the tray where the dog often goes to the toilet, combined with the pee pad at first to help the dog get used to it.
✅ Best recommendation : Order via Shopee or Lazada (many shops in Ho Chi Minh City have it available) and sign up for weekly grass replacement service if available.
1. Cat & Pet Rescue Organization
- ARC Vietnam (Animal Rescue & Care) – operates in Ho Chi Minh City, often has cats and dogs for adoption. 👉 Facebook: ARC Vietnam
- Laws for Paws Vietnam – non-profit organization, rescues cats and dogs and organizes adoption events.
- PAWS for Compassion – primarily based in Da Nang, but sometimes connects with fosters in Ho Chi Minh City.
2. Cat cafe with adoption program
- Pet Me Café (District 2) – some cat cafes cooperate with rescue groups to find new homes for cats.
- Meow House or similar cat cafe – sometimes combined with an adoption community.
3. Online groups & social networks (very active)
- Facebook groups :
- Adopting dogs and cats in Ho Chi Minh City
- Love Saigon cats
- Thu Duc Dog and Cat Lovers Association – District 2
👉 Fosters often post ads looking for adoptive owners (usually free but requires commitment, sometimes with a small fee to cover vaccinations/sterilization).
4. Veterinary clinic & pet store in District 2
- Saigon Pet Clinic (Thao Dien, District 2) – sometimes supports rescue/adoption connections.
- Animal Doctors International (ADI, Thao Dien, District 2) – has links with rescue groups.
🐾 Notes when adopting
- You need to prove you can provide safe, long-term care for a cat.
- Most groups will require a signed adoption agreement (no abandonment, must be spayed or neutered, fully vetted).
- Some cats have been vaccinated/neutered; you may need to help cover some of the costs.
🐾 Lost & Found / Rescue
🐶 Take action now
- Search around : Dogs usually only hang around a few alleys near your home, especially in the first few hours. Check parks, alleys, and neighbors' yards.
- Name it : Bring your favorite toy, snack, or scented object.
- Ask the locals : Shopkeepers, security guards, and neighbors often notice stray dogs.
📢 Spread information quickly
- Post on Facebook/Zalo (very active in Ho Chi Minh City) :
- Saigon Dog and Cat Lovers Association
- Lost Pets Association
- Lost & Found Pets Saigon 👉 Should post clear photos, with name, breed, fur color, size, time & location of loss, contact phone number.
- Print flyers : Post them at pet stores, veterinary clinics, coffee shops, and around the neighborhood.
📍 Check out important locations
- Veterinary clinics & pet stores in the area (by district): sometimes people bring stray dogs in.
- Pet rescue organization in Ho Chi Minh City :
- ARC Vietnam (Animal Rescue & Care)
- Laws for Paws Vietnam
- Saigon Time Animal Shelter
- Local authorities : In some cases, the local police may receive reports of stray dogs.
🛡️ Prevention
- Microchipping (service available at Saigon Pet Clinic, Animal Doctors International, etc.).
- Always keep your name tag + phone number on your necklace.
- Use a secure leash when going out, especially in crowded areas.
Step 1: Assess the situation
- If it is your dog → you can directly find an adopter.
- If it belongs to someone else → need consent or ask a rescue organization. Taking it away without permission may cause legal problems.
Step 2: Ensure health & safety
- Take your dog to the vet : vaccinations, deworming, flea/tick prevention, sterilization (if possible).
- Take clear photos + record information: age, breed (if known), size, personality, medical condition (if any).
Step 3: Find support
- Rescue team in Vietnam (especially Hanoi/HCMC) :
- ARC Vietnam (Animal Rescue & Care)
- Laws for Paws Vietnam
- Saigon Time Animal Shelter
- Facebook Group :
- Adopting dogs and cats in Ho Chi Minh City / Hanoi
- Vietnam Dog and Cat Lovers Association
- Lost & Found Pets Vietnam 👉 This is a very active community, easy to find adopters.
Step 4: Screening of adoptive parents
- Ask about living conditions: house/apartment, space, care time.
- Commitment: no abandonment, guaranteed veterinary care, sterilization.
- It is best to have an adoption agreement in writing .
Step 5: Safely transfer the dog
- If possible, allow 1–2 weeks for incubation.
- Send familiar items: blankets, toys, food.
- Follow up and ask about the situation after adoption.
⚠️ Important note
- Don't post "Free Dogs" ads without screening → it can easily attract irresponsible people or traders.
- If your dog is being abused and you are unable to intervene, contact a rescue group for guidance.
1. Rescue groups & pet adoption centers
- ARC Vietnam (Animal Rescue & Care Vietnam) – Long-standing rescue group in HCM.
- Saigon Time Animal Rescue (STAR) – Focus on rescue, care and finding adoptive homes.
- ARC Vietnam Facebook Group – Regularly post adoptions.
- Pet Adoption Vietnam (Facebook groups) – Community network to support finding adoptive owners.
- YDV – Love Animals – Large community page about pet rescue.
2. Social networks & online communities
- Facebook groups like “Adopt Me Vietnam,” “Vietnam Pet Adoption,” or “Dog Lovers Saigon.”
- Instagram pages of rescue organizations (often posting pictures of pets for adoption).
- Zalo group about pets (Vietnamese people use Zalo quite a lot).
3. Veterinary Clinics & Pet Stores Some clinics/stores have notice boards or connections with people looking to adopt.
4. Expat & Local Community
- Expat groups in HCM or Internations HCMC – Pet Lovers often have people interested in adopting.
- Vietnamese pet groups are also very active and share information quickly.
1. Cat & Animal Rescue Groups
- ARC Vietnam (Animal Rescue & Care Vietnam) – Supports both dogs and cats.
- Saigon Time Animal Rescue (STAR) – Active rescue group in HCM.
- YDV – Love Animals (Fanpage & Facebook group) – Large rescue community.
- Meow House Vietnam – A group focused on cat rescue and adoption.
- Cat Adoption Saigon (Facebook group) – Community for cats.
2. Social media community
- Facebook Groups : “Vietnam Cat Lovers,” “Vietnam Pet Adoption,” “Dog & Cat Rescue Saigon.”
- Zalo Group : Many animal lovers connect here (can search with keywords cat adoption HCM , cat rescue ).
3. Veterinary clinic & cat cafe
- Some clinics have partnerships with rescue groups that can connect you with a foster care provider.
- Cat cafes (like Pet Me Coffee or Meow Coffee ) often have networks of contacts with rescuers.
4. What you can do right away
- Take clear photos/videos of mother cat and kittens.
- Write a brief description (location, condition, urgency).
- Post to the rescue groups mentioned above – they usually respond faster when they see detailed posts.
Instructions & Tips
- Pet-Friendly Apartments in Ho Chi Minh City (District 2 & District 7)
- Pet-friendly cafes in Ho Chi Minh City
- Pet-Friendly Hotels & Resorts in Ho Chi Minh City, Vung Tau, Ho Tram and Phan Thiet
- Documents & Certifications to Bring Pets into Vietnam
- Documents & Certifications to Take Pets Out of Vietnam (plus vet/licensing authority)
- Agencies that Assist in Arranging International Pet Shipping from Vietnam
Need quick help?
💬 Still have questions?
- Explore the ASK PWH tab on PWH.vn for answers and tutorials.
- Message us directly on Zalo for quick support from certified veterinarians and a team of experienced pet parents.
Because every pet deserves a safe, happy and loving life in Vietnam. 🐶🐱💙
⚠️ Disclaimer
The information shared on Ask PWH is for general education and informational purposes only. Our team—consisting of experienced pet owners, industry experts, and veterinarians—works hard to provide accurate and helpful advice. However, all content should be considered for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary care.
For health or medical concerns, please consult your veterinarian directly.
In case of emergency or medical emergency, seek veterinary help immediately.
The recommendations for pet hotels, clinics, cafes, agencies, or other services listed on this site are provided for your convenience only. All such services are provided by independent third parties, and PWH does not endorse, guarantee, or assume any responsibility for the quality, safety, price, or reliability of any third-party provider.
By using this platform, you acknowledge and agree that PWH, its team and contributors are not liable for any loss, injury, damage or incident arising from your reliance on the information provided or from your use of any third party services mentioned.
This information is intended to assist pet owners in making more informed decisions, but full responsibility for any actions taken rests with the pet owner.