Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

As temperatures drop, the Taipei City Animal Protection Office reminds pet owners to take proper precautions to keep their pets warm and prevent illness. Neglecting a pet’s well-being, resulting in illness or even death due to cold exposure, can lead to fines of up to NT$75,000. In severe cases, owners may face criminal liability.

According to Article 5, Section 2 of the Animal Protection Act, pet owners must provide a suitable living environment with appropriate temperatures based on the species, age, and physical needs of their animals. For example, rabbits thrive in temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, while hedgehogs, which are sensitive to cold, require a range of 24°C to 29°C. Pet owners should carefully assess these needs and prepare a proper environment before adopting pets to help them adjust to different weather conditions.

The Taipei City Government has set regulations requiring the use of heating equipment if the temperature in an animal’s living environment falls below 10°C. Failure to comply may result in a NT$2,000 fine. To keep pets warm, owners can provide thick bedding, heaters, or heating pads, ensuring safety measures are in place to prevent burns.

The Animal Protection Office urges pet owners to proactively understand and meet their pets’ needs, especially those with different species. If anyone witnesses improper pet care or neglect, they can report it to the 1959 Animal Protection Hotline for timely intervention and rescue.