Vietnam to triple fines for letting dogs and cats roam in public

The decree, which covers administrative penalties in security, public order and social issues, raises the existing fine for free-roaming pets more than triple from VND100,000–300,000 to VND500,000–1 million.

The same fine will apply to those who allow pets, plants or other objects to obstruct sidewalks, roads, parks or shared residential spaces.

Authorities will also impose heavier penalties, between VND2 and 3 million, on pet owners whose animals cause injury or property damage, or on anyone who paints, posts, or attaches unauthorized images or content on public walls, power poles, or other structures.

For the first time, the decree also sets clear rules against grazing livestock or poultry in apartment buildings and outlines penalties for pets that harm people or property.