Da Nang Forms Task Force to Capture Stray Dogs and Cats

Da Nang City in central Vietnam is set to establish a specialized task force dedicated to capturing stray dogs and cats. This initiative aims to prevent the spread of rabies and maintain the city's urban aesthetics. On July 22, the People's Committee of Ngu Hanh Son Ward announced its plan to form a task force in coordination with the Department of Economy, Infrastructure, and Urban Development, and the Center for Public Service Provision. This unit will be equipped with specialized training and protective gear, working with the City Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine to transfer captured animals to the city's centralized holding facility. Police officers will also be assigned to ensure security and address any acts of obstruction or resistance to public officials. This plan is part of a broader city-wide policy under Decision No. 2949 issued by the Da Nang City People's Committee. This decision permits ward (xã, phường) authorities to establish task forces for capturing stray dogs and cats within their respective jurisdictions or across multiple wards, based on their specific conditions. The centralized holding facility for stray dogs and cats will be located at Km13 of the South Hai Van Bypass in Hai Van Ward, within the Kim Lien Animal Quarantine Station under the City Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine. The facility will operate during administrative hours on weekdays, from 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM and from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Captured animals will be housed for a 48-hour health monitoring period. Owners wishing to reclaim their pets must present identification and a confirmation from the local government, and may face administrative fines ranging from VND 500,000 to VND 3 million. If no owner comes forward within 48 hours, a handling committee will decide on their donation to research institutions, organizations, or individuals, or their disposal if they are sick or deceased. In parallel with the capture efforts, local authorities are mandating that all pet owners register their animals, ensure regular rabies vaccinations, and use muzzles and leashes when taking dogs into public spaces.