Vietnam – Veterinary Care

What is the standard of veterinary care in Vietnam?

Veterinary care in Vietnam has advanced markedly over the past decade, with a growing number of clinics and animal hospitals opening their doors across the country. In the main urban centres — most notably Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Hanoi, and Da Nang — pet owners can now access a variety of well-appointed practices, some of which operate to international standards and specifically serve the expatriate community.

The level of care on offer differs between individual clinics, but most established practices provide routine services including health checks, vaccinations, surgical procedures, and emergency treatment. More remote parts of the country tend to have fewer facilities, and the clinical capabilities available there may lag behind what is found in larger cities. This divide between urban and rural provision is characteristic of many developing nations in the region, comparable in broad terms to patterns seen in other parts of Southeast Asia such as Indonesia or the Philippines.

International-standard veterinary hospitals have emerged in Vietnam over recent decades, responding to growing demand from a more affluent and pet-conscious population. Unlike many European countries where round-the-clock emergency veterinary care is broadly standardised and widely available, dedicated 24-hour services in Vietnam remain concentrated in the largest cities. It is therefore sensible to identify the nearest emergency clinic as soon as you settle in a new area.

Beyond treating sickness and injury, international clinics in Vietnam increasingly focus on preventive health management, offering regular wellness examinations, dental procedures, physiotherapy, laser therapy, acupuncture, and dietary consultations. For highly specialised referrals — such as oncology or advanced orthopaedic surgery — the options within Vietnam are more restricted, and some owners choose to travel to neighbouring countries such as Thailand for these procedures.

Progress across Vietnam’s various sectors over recent decades is clearly reflected in the veterinary field, and urban practices are gradually aligning with international norms. Nevertheless, knowing where to look makes a significant difference. Speaking to the local expat community and researching clinics before you arrive remains the most dependable route to finding quality care for your pet.

Is there a national veterinary association in Vietnam?

At the regulatory level, veterinary practice in Vietnam falls under the authority of the Department of Animal Health (DAH), which operates within the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD). The DAH plays a central role in safeguarding animal health across the livestock and aquaculture industries, and its responsibilities encompass disease surveillance and control, veterinary service provision, and the development of policies supporting sustainable animal husbandry. Through these functions, the DAH contributes directly to food security, public health, and the broader economy.

The DAH is the primary government body responsible for licensing veterinarians and veterinary premises throughout Vietnam. The national animal health management structure includes the DAH at the ministerial level, as well as Veterinary Agencies within each Provincial or City Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and various other regional bodies. Official information from MARD is available at www.mard.gov.vn — the site is primarily in Vietnamese, so a translation tool will likely be needed.

In terms of professional representation, the Vietnam Veterinary Association (VVA) serves as the national body for the veterinary profession. Founded in 1956, the VVA promotes animal health, animal welfare, and the development of veterinary medicine across the country. Its registered address is No. 3, Lane 26, Tran Thai Tong, Dich Vong Hau, Cau Giay, Hanoi. Pet owners seeking current contact details or information about any public-facing registers should check directly with the VVA.

For companion animal care in particular, the Vietnam Small Animal Veterinary Association (VSAVA) holds membership with the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA). This affiliation means that member veterinarians are encouraged to follow internationally recognised guidelines for vaccination and clinical care. WSAVA directs enquiries from pet owners to local veterinarians rather than responding directly to the public. To verify a vet’s credentials, the most reliable course of action is to contact the DAH or the VSAVA directly, or to choose a clinic that openly displays its professional accreditations.

How do I find a vet in Vietnam, and are multilingual vets available?

Veterinary clinics and hospitals operate throughout Vietnam, with the greatest concentration in major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. A number of these clinics employ English-speaking veterinarians and support staff, which considerably eases communication for expatriates and visitors with pets. Some international practices also have French-speaking or other multilingual team members, reflecting the varied makeup of Vietnam’s expat population.

In smaller cities, provincial towns, and rural areas, language barriers become more of a consideration. Outside the principal expat hubs, it is a good idea to bring a Vietnamese-speaking companion or use a translation application when attending a local clinic. Among the internationally focused practices with a strong reputation among expats are:

• Animal Doctors International (ADI) — with key locations in both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, ADI is one of the most widely recognised choices within the expatriate community. Further details at www.theanimaldoctors.org.
• PAWS International Vet Clinic (Da Nang) — described as the first and only full-service international veterinary clinic in Central Vietnam, offering comprehensive clinical care delivered by experienced international veterinarians. See pawsclinic.vn.
• Saigon Pet Hospital / Saigon Pet Clinic — a frequently cited recommendation within Ho Chi Minh City’s expat community.
• ASVELIS Veterinary Hospital (Hanoi) — located at D2-D4, 98 To Ngoc Van, Tay Ho, Hanoi.

Vietnam’s expat community tends to be closely connected, making word-of-mouth one of the most valuable tools for finding a trustworthy clinic. Facebook groups such as “Dog & Pet Lovers HCMC” and “Dog Friendly Vietnam” are actively used by expat pet owners to exchange recommendations and share experiences. Joining these communities is a practical way to gather firsthand advice from people already navigating pet ownership in Vietnam.

Google Maps reviews — available in both Vietnamese and other languages — offer a useful starting point for broader searches. When visiting a clinic for the first time, look out for displayed certificates and accreditations, which can provide a useful indication of a practice’s training and professional standards.

What vaccinations and preventive treatments does my pet need in Vietnam?

Vietnam is classified as a high-risk country for rabies, making rabies vaccination a non-negotiable priority for all dogs and cats. In addition to the entry requirements outlined later in this guide, annual boosters are strongly advisable once your pet is living in the country. A registered veterinarian in Vietnam should always be consulted to develop a vaccination programme suited to your pet’s age, health status, and lifestyle.

For dogs, the vaccines recommended beyond rabies include those for distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza. For cats, protection against distemper, viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and leukaemia is advised. These align closely with the core vaccination protocols set out in WSAVA guidelines internationally, so if your pet was fully vaccinated before your move, a vet in Vietnam can continue the programme using your existing records.

Vietnam’s warm, humid environment introduces a range of preventive health concerns that may be quite different from what pet owners are used to in cooler climates:

• Heartworm: Spread through mosquito bites, heartworm poses a serious ongoing risk in Vietnam’s tropical conditions. Monthly preventive medication is widely recommended and readily available through veterinary practices.
• Fleas and ticks: Year-round flea and tick control is essential in the tropics. Parasite treatment is required within five days before departure for import, and this routine should be maintained throughout your time in Vietnam.
• Intestinal parasites: Regular deworming — typically every one to three months — is standard practice in Vietnam, where the environmental parasite burden is higher than in many temperate regions.
• Leptospirosis: Particularly relevant in areas prone to seasonal flooding or where pets come into contact with standing water or soil — a real hazard in many parts of Vietnam during the monsoon season.
• Tick-borne diseases: Ehrlichia and Babesia are endemic to the region and can be life-threatening; consistent tick prevention is therefore essential.

Specific requirements and recommendations may differ depending on the part of Vietnam where you are based and your individual pet’s circumstances. Always seek current guidance from a registered veterinarian in Vietnam, as both clinical protocols and local disease patterns evolve over time.

What does veterinary care cost in Vietnam?

The overall cost of pet ownership in Vietnam — encompassing food, routine care, and veterinary services — is generally lower than in most Western countries. That said, costs vary considerably depending on the type of clinic, the city you are in, and the nature of the treatment required. It is always advisable to confirm current fees directly with a practice before your appointment.

As a broad guide (as of 2024–2025): a routine consultation at a standard clinic typically falls in the range of USD $10–$20, while emergency procedures can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 depending on the complexity of the case. These are approximate figures only and differ between clinics and locations.

In expat-oriented districts — such as Thao Dien in Ho Chi Minh City or Tay Ho in Hanoi — prices tend to be higher, reflecting the international-standard facilities available there. A consultation at a clinic staffed by international veterinarians in these areas may cost two to three times the equivalent at a local neighbourhood practice. Specialist appointments, diagnostic imaging (X-rays, ultrasound), and surgical interventions will carry additional charges.

For context: a routine vaccination appointment at a local Vietnamese clinic is typically far less expensive than comparable services in Western Europe or Australia, though this gap narrows considerably at the international-standard hospitals that serve the expatriate community. All figures given here are illustrative only — always verify current pricing directly with individual practices, as fees are subject to change.

Is pet insurance available in Vietnam, and is it worth it?

Compared to well-established markets such as those in Western Europe, Australia, or Japan — where a wide range of insurers and standardised policy types exist — pet insurance in Vietnam is still a relatively nascent industry. Nevertheless, options are expanding alongside rising rates of pet ownership and the continued growth of the expatriate community.

For expats managing the many demands of life in a new country — accommodation, visas, day-to-day expenses — the potential cost of veterinary treatment is not always front of mind. Yet a sudden accident, the diagnosis of a chronic condition, or the need for emergency surgery can result in bills that rival a month’s rent in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. Having insurance in place can make a significant difference in these situations.

Some international pet insurance providers will extend cover to pets relocated abroad, subject to notification of the move. Before leaving your home country, it is worth contacting your existing insurer to confirm whether your policy continues to apply in Vietnam and under what terms. Within Vietnam, a small number of local insurers and brokers have begun offering pet cover, though policy terms, exclusions, and claims procedures may differ substantially from what you may be accustomed to elsewhere.

When assessing any policy — whether from a domestic or international provider — the following points deserve careful attention:

• Pre-existing condition exclusions (the majority of policies will not cover conditions present before the policy was taken out)
• Per-incident and annual coverage caps
• Whether tropical diseases endemic to Vietnam — such as tick-borne illnesses or heartworm — are included in the cover
• Whether the policy reimburses treatment at international clinics, which tend to charge premium rates
• How the claims process works, including whether you pay upfront and seek reimbursement

For day-to-day care, out-of-pocket expenses may feel manageable. However, when unexpected illness or injury strikes, veterinary costs can escalate rapidly — and this is precisely where insurance can prove its worth, reducing financial stress and allowing you to make decisions based on your pet’s needs rather than your budget. Pet owners who choose not to take out a policy are nonetheless advised to keep a dedicated emergency fund set aside for veterinary costs.

What are the rules for bringing a pet into Vietnam?

Vietnam’s requirements for importing pet animals are established by the Department of Animal Health (DAH) under MARD. These rules apply to domestic dogs and cats — including service and emotional support animals — travelling with their owners as personal pets. Exotic animals such as birds, reptiles, amphibians, and rodents are subject to separate regulations. Given that requirements can change, always verify the current rules with the DAH or the relevant veterinary export authority in your country of departure before travelling. Failure to comply can result in quarantine or refusal of entry.

The general step-by-step process for importing a cat or dog into Vietnam is as follows:

1. Microchip your pet. Your pet should be fitted with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip. This should be done before the rabies vaccination is administered. Although microchipping is treated as a strong recommendation rather than an absolute mandate in all circumstances, it is effectively essential for identification and documentation purposes.
2. Vaccinate against rabies. All dogs and cats over three months of age must have received a rabies vaccination no less than 30 days and no more than 12 months before entering Vietnam. Vietnam does not recognise the three-year rabies vaccine. The vaccination must follow microchip implantation.
3. Administer core vaccines. Dogs should be vaccinated against distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. Cats should receive protection against viral rhinotracheitis, panleukopenia, and leukaemia. These vaccines are recommended, though rabies is the only one formally mandated for entry.
4. Complete parasite treatment. Your pet must receive treatment for both internal and external parasites within five days before departure.
5. Obtain a health certificate. A health certificate must be issued by a licensed veterinarian within seven days of travel. It should confirm that your pet is free from contagious disease and fit to travel, and must be issued and, where applicable, endorsed by the national veterinary authority of your country of origin.
6. Check import permit requirements. An import permit is not ordinarily required for personal pets. However, if you are bringing in more than two animals, a permit is required; it typically takes around one week to obtain and is valid for ten days. Commercial imports are subject to additional licensing requirements.
7. Notify the quarantine station at your arrival airport. You must inform the Animal Quarantine Station at your arrival airport of your travel details before landing. Pets may enter Vietnam through the major international airports at Hanoi (Noi Bai), Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat), or Da Nang, where they will be checked by quarantine officers on arrival.
8. Clear quarantine inspection on arrival. Quarantine officers will examine your pet and review all accompanying documentation. Where paperwork is complete and in order, clearance is usually completed within one to two hours. Vietnam does not routinely impose quarantine on pets that satisfy all import requirements, but animals whose documentation is incomplete or who show signs of illness may be quarantined or refused entry.

On the subject of breed restrictions: Vietnam does not currently maintain a list of restricted dog breeds, but full compliance with documentation and vaccination requirements remains mandatory. Note that individual airlines often impose their own restrictions on brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds and on animals based on size — always check with your carrier before booking. Some residential buildings may also have their own breed or size policies.

For the most authoritative and up-to-date requirements, consult the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) and the Department of Animal Health directly. Rules are subject to change and what applies at the time of writing may not reflect requirements at the time of your travel.

Are there any animal welfare laws or pet ownership regulations I should know about in Vietnam?

The principal legislative framework governing veterinary and animal health matters in Vietnam is the Law on Veterinary Medicine (Law No. 79/2015/QH13), which entered into force on 1 July 2016. The law is designed to ensure continuity of veterinary activity from the national to the local level, with the aim of maintaining animal health, supporting socio-economic outcomes, and protecting food safety, human health, and environmental hygiene. It covers disease prevention and control, the regulation of veterinary medicines, and the quarantine of animals.

Veterinary management is unified at the national level by central government. At the sub-national level, Provincial People’s Committees bear responsibility for issuing implementing guidance, and for planning and executing disease-free zone programmes and epidemic prevention initiatives. This means that some specific local requirements — such as dog registration schemes or rules on the use of leashes in public areas — may differ between provinces and municipalities.

Legislation specifically focused on animal welfare and the prevention of cruelty to companion animals is less developed in Vietnam than in many other countries. Attitudes towards the welfare of pets are changing, especially in urban areas, but the legal protections available to companion animals in Vietnam differ considerably from those that pet owners from countries with established animal welfare acts may be accustomed to.

From a practical standpoint, expat pet owners should be aware of the following:

• Registration: Some cities and districts require dogs to be registered with the local People’s Committee. Requirements and their enforcement vary between areas. Check with your local ward or district authority when you arrive.
• Leash and muzzle rules: In many urban settings, dogs must be kept on a lead in public, and some localities may require large breeds to wear a muzzle. Rules vary by location — confirm the applicable requirements with your district authority.
• Rabies control obligations: As a rabies-endemic country, Vietnam conducts periodic vaccination campaigns, and owners may be required to produce vaccination records for local officials. Keeping records up to date is essential.
• Exotic and protected species: Vietnam is a signatory to CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species). Keeping protected or CITES-listed animals as pets is illegal and can carry serious legal consequences. If you own an exotic pet, confirm its legal status in Vietnam before relocating.
• Apartment and building rules: Many residential properties in Vietnamese cities have their own policies on pets, which may impose restrictions based on species, breed, or size. Always review your tenancy agreement or building regulations before bringing a pet into your home.

For specific and current local regulations, contact your district-level People’s Committee or the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. Rules are subject to change and are enforced at the local level, so direct enquiry remains the most reliable approach.

Frequently asked questions

Can I find a vet in Vietnam who speaks my language?

English-speaking veterinarians and support staff are available at many clinics across Vietnam’s major cities, particularly in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, making it much easier for expats to discuss their pets’ health needs. In smaller towns and rural areas, language barriers become more pronounced, and it is advisable to bring a Vietnamese-speaking companion or use a translation application when attending a local practice.

Is there a quarantine period for pets arriving in Vietnam?

Vietnam does not impose routine quarantine on pets whose documentation is complete and in order. However, animals arriving with missing or incorrect paperwork, or displaying signs of illness, may be quarantined or denied entry altogether. Ensuring all documentation is properly prepared before departure is the most important step towards a smooth arrival.

Does Vietnam require a rabies titre test to import a pet?

A rabies titre test is not currently part of Vietnam’s pet import requirements, though it is a worthwhile precaution to have on record. Bear in mind that if you later plan to move your pet onward to another country from Vietnam, a titre test may well be required by that destination. Planning ahead for potential future moves is sensible.

What is the minimum age for a puppy or kitten to enter Vietnam?

Puppies and kittens must be at least three months old, vaccinated against rabies, and must enter the country no fewer than 30 days after receiving that vaccination. The 30-day post-vaccination waiting period is a firm requirement, so vaccination timing should be planned accordingly.

Are there breed restrictions for dogs in Vietnam?

Vietnam does not currently maintain breed restrictions for dogs, provided all required vaccinations and documentation are in order. Individual airlines may, however, restrict certain breeds — particularly those with flat faces — and apply their own size-based policies, so checking with your carrier before booking is essential. Some residential buildings may also impose their own breed or size limitations.

How do I find a vet for an after-hours emergency in Vietnam?

Round-the-clock emergency veterinary services are available in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, primarily through internationally staffed clinics such as Animal Doctors International. It is strongly advisable to save the contact details for both your regular vet and the nearest emergency clinic in your phone, and to familiarise yourself with the route before an emergency arises. Identifying your nearest emergency service as soon as you move to a new area is one of the most important preparations a pet owner can make.

Is pet insurance from my home country valid in Vietnam?

Whether your existing policy remains valid in Vietnam depends entirely on the terms of that specific policy. Some international pet insurers will continue to provide cover for pets living abroad, while others may exclude treatment outside the country of issue. Before relocating, contact your insurer to establish whether the policy extends to Vietnam, what exclusions may apply, and whether treatment received at Vietnamese clinics is eligible for reimbursement.

What tropical health risks should I be aware of for my pet in Vietnam?

Vietnam’s tropical climate creates year-round exposure to heartworm (transmitted by mosquitoes), fleas, ticks, and tick-borne diseases including Ehrlichia and Babesia. Intestinal parasites are also more prevalent than in cooler climates. Ongoing preventive treatment — encompassing heartworm prophylaxis, flea and tick control, and regular deworming — is strongly recommended. A veterinarian based in Vietnam can advise on a preventive health schedule appropriate to your pet’s circumstances and your specific location within the country.