Pet measures offer us paws for thought

By the end of 2009, there were around 60 million pet dogs across major Chinese cities. The numbers have been increasing rapidly since then, with pet owners spending an estimated $2 billion a year on animal care.

As of last week, the numbers in one Chinese city will be more strictly controlled. Thanks to regulations passed in Shanghai, May 15 will be the date by which pet lovers can no longer have more than one licensed dog. Although the penalties are yet to be finalized, as well as who will be in charge of enforcement, the controversial ruling has already drawn mixed reactions.

The rules state every dog aged 3 months or older must be regularly vaccinated against rabies and have yearly examinations, otherwise owners face fines of up to 1,000 yuan. There will also be punishments for irresponsible owners that abandon or abuse their pets.