Dog-beating case at Vietnam’s Da Lat square prompts police warning, boycott calls

On Thursday, police questioned the man and began compiling a case file for administrative penalties following the incident, which sparked widespread outrage on social media.

Police act against dog owner

The controversy began on September 2, when a video showing the man using a stick to beat an Alaska Malamute dog at Lam Vien Square circulated online.

The man was identified as T.V.L., 38, a resident of Ho Chi Minh City.

L. said the dog belonged to him and that he had beaten it because he was angry that it did not obey his commands.

According to the Xuan Huong - Da Lat Ward People's Committee, L. had recently arrived in the Da Lat area and regularly brought the dog to crowded places for tourists to take photos with it.

Local police said they frequently intervene to stop people from bringing dogs and other pets to Lam Vien Square and other public areas for paid photo services.

Tourists have been advised not to take photos with the animals, pay for such services or otherwise support animal-based commercial activities at these locations.

However, police said some visitors continue to use the services, making enforcement more difficult.

Police said L. had walked the dog around the square and, when no officers were on duty, allowed tourists to take photos with it in exchange for payment.

Authorities said they would increase patrols and make greater use of security cameras to prevent people from bringing animals and pets to public spaces for paid photo services.

A similar incident occurred at Lam Vien Square in August 2024, when Alaskan Malamutes used for tourist photo services were filmed being beaten and mistreated, sparking public outrage.

Police subsequently investigated and worked with the owner of a dog photo service.

Online calls to boycott dog photo services

The latest incident has prompted calls on Da Lat-related social media groups for tourists to boycott photo services involving dogs at Lam Vien Square.

Many users argue that every paid photo session encourages owners to keep bringing dogs to the square as a way to make money, with the animals required to sit, stand or pose for visitors for long hours, particularly during holidays and peak travel periods.

A message widely shared online is simple: don't take photos, don't pay and don't support the practice.

Some users have urged tourists to stop paying altogether, arguing that the service will eventually disappear if there is no longer demand for it.

Despite their imposing build and thick, wolf-like coats, Alaskan Malamutes are known for being affectionate, loyal and friendly toward people.