Increasingly recognising the significance of pets and their positive impact on human well-being, societies are reevaluating their approach to pet ownership. This shift not only acknowledges the profound influence of our dear friends, but also emphasises the importance of prioritising their welfare through the implementation of pet-friendly regulations.
The domestication of animals has a deep-rooted history in China, with dogs emerging as the oldest domesticated creatures in ancient Chinese civilisation. Supported by verified archaeological evidence, records show that dogs were already part of Chinese households around 9,000 years ago. Centuries later, owning a pet was a luxury limited to the privileged few.
However, with rapid urbanisation and the rise of the middle class, more Chinese households are embracing pets as integral family members. This shift extends beyond dogs and cats, as exotic animals such as reptiles and birds also gain popularity as valuable companions.
Hence a thriving pet-related business sector that encompasses a wide range of products available on popular e-commerce platforms. Pet owners are willing to invest significantly to ensure the well being of their furred or feathered friends. In today’s market, pet products are more sophisticated, diverse and of higher quality than ever before. Luxury brands have even ventured into producing pet clothing and accessories, appealing not only to human consumers but also potential animal customers. Additionally, services such as grooming salons and pet-friendly hotels have gained traction among high-end customers.
Alongside these developments, in 2009, a team of legal scholars drafted the first comprehensive animal-protection law, one that has yet to be ratified. Furthermore, there has been debate about the introduction of a pet-protection law to regulate different aspects of pet ownership, care and breeding. Such a law would establish an organised and standardised pet industry, addressing their mistreatment, particularly in light of the rise of animal cruelty on the internet.
Despite the current absence of such, the prevailing understanding categorises pets as personal property under civil law. This classification grants pet owners a unique degree of autonomy in caring for their animal companions, empowering them to make decisions that directly impact their pets’ lives, including healthcare choices and daily routines.
China has moved closer to becoming pet-friendly by introducing the “Animal Epidemic Prevention Law” in 2010, which made eating dog and cat meat illegal. Additionally, areas such as Guangdong, Fujian, Hunan and Chongqing, have explicitly prohibited the consumption of dog meat. However, in some places such as Yulin in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, dog meat is still considered as an important part of the local culture and tradition. But the laws nevertheless send a strong signal that things are changing; China is becoming more caring about pets and animals.
Beyond legislative changes, China’s journey toward a more pet-friendly society is evident in its urban planning and infrastructure development. Numerous cities are integrating pet-friendly elements into their designs; creating public spaces and parks tailored to accommodate both pets and their owners. These initiatives not only promote a sense of community among pet owners but also encourage responsible pet ownership by providing suitable areas for exercise and socialising.
In addition to these shifts in legislation, economy and urban planning, China’s growing appreciation for pets is driving an educational movement. Both governmental and non-governmental, pet-related organisations are actively engaging in campaigns, workshops and seminars to educate the public about responsible pet ownership. These efforts inform owners about proper care, nutrition, health and the associated legal aspects. Such a comprehensive approach not only deepens the understanding of pets’ needs, but also aims to build a harmonious coexistence between pets, their owners and the broader community.
China’s journey toward becoming a more pet-friendly nation demonstrates its adaptability and willingness to evolve in response to changing societal values. The development of pet-related laws, the growth of pet-oriented industries and the integration of pet-friendly elements into urban planning all underscore the country’s appreciation for the bond between humans and their animal companions. As this transformation continues, education also plays a vital role, ensuring a more harmonious future coexistence for both pets and people in China’s dynamic landscape.
