What you need to know about owning a pet in Japan

Recommended for those who want to have a pet in Japan. We explain about what you should do when you have a pet.

Pets can make us very happy. Some foreigners living in Japan may want to acquire their own pets.
This article introduces what you need to know about pet ownership in Japan, including the obligations of owners.
 
*Note: This article is focused only on dogs and cats.

Obligations of pet owners

Registration Procedures

Microchip Registration

Microchipping of dogs and cats is mandatory in Japan.
When you adopt a dog or cat from a pet store or breeder, a microchip is already installed.
You must change the information of the registrant to your own information.
If you adopt a dog or cat that does not have a microchip, please ask the veterinary clinic to install one.
 
If you are moving, you should also change the address to be registrated on the microchip after you move.
 
Source: 環境省　犬と猫のマイクロチップ情報登録について

Register your dog at the city office

If you wish to adopt a dog, you must first register it at the municipal office of your city or ward.
In some municipalities, registration of a microchip is not required.
 
Reference: In the case of Osaka City

If you have implanted a microchip in your dog and registered the microchip information with the national authority (designated registration agency) after November 1, 2022, you do not need to apply for registration with Osaka City.

Vaccinations

If you own a dog and cat in Japan, several vaccinations are required.
To prevent disease, some should be given while puppies and kittens, and some should be given annually.

Rabies vaccination

In Japan, rabies vaccination of dogs is required by law.
Dogs must receive one rabies vaccination each year once they are 91 days old or older.
After receiving the vaccination, you will be issued an inoculation certificate. Do not lose this certificate and keep it.

Follow pet ownership rules

If you have a pet, you need to be considerate of those around you.

• When taking your dog for a walk, keep the dog on a leash.
• Always take pet excrement home with you when you walk with your pet.
• Be aware of your pet's noises both while walking and in the house.
• Take measures against pet and excrement smells, etc.

 Especially if you live in an apartment, please make sure to follow all the rules for keeping pets in your apartment.

About the Veterinary Clinic

How to choose a veterinary hospital

For pet owners, the choice of veterinary hospital is very important.
You can search the Internet, or if you have friends or acquaintances who have pets in the neighborhood, ask them for recommendations.
 
It is recommended to know several other veterinary hospitals in addition to your local veterinary hospital.
Check in advance which veterinary hospitals have emergency services, especially at night.

Health Examination

A visit to the veterinary clinic is not only for preventive care and illness.
It's very important to get regular checkups to monitor your pet's health.

For prospective pet owners

Things to consider before adopting a pet

• Do you have enough time and money to take care of your pet?
• Is your current home large enough and/or spacious enough room for a pet?
• Do family members approve of adopting a pet?
• Do you and your family have any allergies to dogs or cats?
• Do you have a place to keep them when you are away from home?
• Will you be able to bring the pet back to your home country?

 
In particular, those who will eventually return to their home countries should also check whether they can take their pets back to their home countries.
Some countries have strict regulations on pets.

If you live in a rental property

Check to see if the property allows pets.
Even if it says "pets allowed," there may be restrictions on the number or size of dogs or cats that may be permitted.
In addition, some properties have detailed rules. For example, dogs are not allowed to walk in hallways, feces are not allowed to be flushed down the toilet, etc.
Check carefully with the management company before adopting a pet.

Advice on living with pets

Where to buy pet food

Pet food can be purchased at home centers, pet stores, and online stores.
If you are not sure which one to buy, or if you want to give your pet the right one for his or her health condition, it is recommended to buy it at a veterinary clinic.

Visit a pet friendly facility.

There are facilities in Japan where you can spend time with your pets.
 
Dog Run
This facility allows dogs to run freely in the park. It is also a place where you can interact with other dog owners.
 
Dog Cafe
This is a cafe where you can bring your dog. Some have food for dogs.
 
Pet Friendly Accommodations
Hotels and inns where you can stay with your dog. Some of them even allow cats.

Finally

In Japan, when owning a pet, registration of a microchip and vaccinations at a veterinary clinic are required.
It is also important to find a veterinary clinic to manage your pet's health and to have regular checkups.
 
Be able to communicate your pet's condition in Japanese when you visit a veterinary hospital.
Dogs and cats cannot speak your language. You, the owner, should be prepared to talk to the doctor appropriately!