The government has issued Decree No. 204, which sets out penalties for violations related to animal health and disease prevention. Under the decree, the maximum fine for a veterinary-related offence is VND 50 million for individuals and VND 100 million for organisations.
Individuals may be fined VND1 million-VND2 million for failing to vaccinate animals against rabies or for taking dogs into public places without a muzzle, leash or proper supervision.
The same fine applies to those who conceal, fail to report or delay reporting cases in which animals are found to be infected with, suspected of carrying, or have died from infectious diseases.
Fines of VND 3 million to VND 4 million will apply to those who fail to report laboratory results confirming animals are carrying pathogens listed among notifiable animal diseases or zoonotic diseases.
The decree also imposes penalties of VND 4 million to VND 5 million for buying, selling or altering animal disease-free certification documents.
Individuals who dispose of diseased animals or animal products into the environment, or trade breeding animals infected with contagious diseases, may face fines of VND 5 million to VND 6 million.
A fine of VND6 million to VND 8 million may be imposed for using unlicensed, expired or untraceable veterinary medicines, as well as for failing to properly dispose of diseased animals, animal products or contaminated waste as required by law.
The decree also imposes fines of VND 15 million-VND 20 million for transporting diseased animals or contaminated products and waste out of epidemic zones without permission.
Owners who fail to carry out mandatory vaccinations or other required disease-prevention measures for animals may be fined between VND 200,000 and VND 300,000.
Animal collection facilities may also face fines of VND 2 million to VND 3 million for breaches of veterinary hygiene requirements, including inadequate waste treatment systems or unsuitable locations near residential or farming areas.
The government said the penalties apply to violations committed by individuals, while organisations committing the same offences will face fines twice as high.
The decree will take effect on August 1.
