Authorities in Ngu Hanh Son Ward, Danang City, have established a specialised team to capture stray and free-roaming dogs and cats in a bid to curb the spread of rabies and improve public safety and urban cleanliness.
The plan, announced on July 22 by the ward People's Committee, provides for trained personnel equipped with protective gear and specialised capture equipment. The team will work with the city's Livestock Production and Animal Health Sub-Department to transport captured animals to a central holding facility.
Ward police officers will also participate in the operation to maintain public order and deal with any attempts to obstruct officials carrying out their duties.
The central animal holding facility has been established in Hai Van Ward and will operate during official working hours on weekdays, from 7.30 am to 11.30 am and from 1.30 pm to 5.30 pm.
Captured animals will be identified, housed and monitored for 48 hours. During that period, owners wishing to reclaim their pets must provide proof of ownership endorsed by local authorities. They may also face administrative fines ranging from VND 500,000 to VND 3 million (USD 19 to USD 115) for allowing their animals to roam freely.
If no owner comes forward within 48 hours, a review committee will decide whether the animals should be donated to research institutions, organisations or individuals. Animals that are sick or die while in custody will be humanely disposed of in accordance with regulations.
Alongside the enforcement campaign, local authorities have ordered all pet owners to register their animals, ensure they receive regular rabies vaccinations and keep dogs muzzled and on a lead when taken into public places.
