Shanghai

Shanghai is one of the most modern and progressive cities in China, yet it will take 1-2 generations more before the citizens of Shanghai care for pets adequately. There are hundreds of thousands of stray cats and dogs in the city. When one is captured (usually a dog, since they are easier to catch), they are kept for 48 hours before they are put down.

As time passes and with education from the city’s vets and animal clubs, children and their parents will learn how to care for and train their pets. Proper food, inoculations, and care of pets are expensive in Shanghai. Costs are at least 25% higher here than in Western cities, especially the food and grooming services.

The percentage of Chinese locals with pets is far lower than that of the expat population, but is starting to grow since it’s perceived as another trend imported from Western countries. Pets are usually purchased for the family’s child, but the pet never obtains any training. This is one reason why dog bites are the leading cause of injuries to visitors to China – Westerners tend to expect dogs to be trained, but are surprised when the pet displays untrained behavior.

On the other hand, there are some Chinese families that consider their pet dog as a member of their family – in the winter, the dog will have socks and a coat on. These Chinese families that care for their pets also place great importance on stunning shampoos, hairstyles, and other grooming.

Young Chinese children in Shanghai today gravitate towards the soft and furry creatures: rabbits, gerbils, and even baby chicks (until they grow into chickens). It is common to see street vendors with large cardboard boxes of puppies being sold in subway stations or on street corners – of course, there are no medical papers or proof of any inoculations.

However, we know that animal clubs and some of the vets are spending many hours visiting primary schools to impress young children with the notion that pets can be important parts of their lives. With time, these actions will bear fruit and Shanghai will improve as a haven for pets.

One last piece of advice. If you are considering getting a cat when you are already in Shanghai, don’t buy it. In any compound you will find tiny cats in real need of a home and still able to be educated. After a visit to the veterinary, they will be as suitable as pets as any cat that you buy. You will gain some good karma and save a lot of money.

Pet-Friendly Hotels in Shanghai

We’ve listed pet friendly hotels in Shanghai because holidays are always more fun with your best friend. The properties have specified that pets are allowed, as they either have special facilities on site for animals, or pets are allowed in rooms.

Please note: While the Shanghai hotels listed below have identified themselves as “pet-friendly”, it is advisable to check out the property’s details page on our site, as special arrangements need to be made for pets and extra charges may apply.