Unleashed dogs along Nhieu Loc - Thi Nghe Canal in Ho Chi Minh City spark safety concerns

Readers of Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper have recently reported that unleashed and unmuzzled dogs are commonly seen along Hoang Sa and Truong Sa Streets by the canal, especially in the mornings, afternoons, and especially on weekends.

The newspaper also observed that dogs are often seen running freely in parks or dashing onto the road during those hours.

Many pedestrians are chased, while motorcyclists are startled when dogs suddenly cross the street, posing a constant risk of accidents.

Despite years of complaints, measures to address the issue have shown little effect.

Minh Trang, a resident who frequently exercises along the canal, said she has recently felt uncomfortable seeing pet owners letting their dogs relieve themselves in public without cleaning up.

“I come here to breathe fresh air, but there are sections where I have to cover my nose because of the stench,” Trang said.

Local residents are also worried that large, aggressive dogs without muzzles could threaten children.

“Every afternoon I take my grandchild for a walk, but I’m always nervous when I see unleashed dogs,” Hoang Van, who lives by the canal, shared.

“I get really scared and immediately pick the child up whenever a dog comes close, afraid it might bite before I can react.”

Many pet owners from other neighborhoods also bring their dogs to the canal area for walks or to relieve themselves.

Most are not muzzled, and some are left to roam freely, raising safety concerns and spoiling the city’s appearance.

The Nhieu Loc Ward People’s Committee has put up warning banners stating, “A fine of VND1 to VND2 million (US$37.96 to 75.93) will be imposed on those who fail to muzzle or leash their dogs or leave them unattended in public places.”

However, the banners are now obscured by trees, reducing their visibility and effectiveness.

Ngo Thi Hien, chairwoman of the Nhieu Loc Ward People’s Committee, told Tuoi Tre that the local authorities are aware of the problem and have requested neighborhood units to strictly follow regulations.

“We encourage residents to take photos and report immediately when they see unleashed dogs causing trouble so we can handle the cases promptly,” Hien said.

According to Hien, the main challenge is the limited patrol manpower.

After the recent administrative merger, the workload has increased, making regular inspections difficult.

Still, the ward pledged to strengthen measures, reposition the warning banners, and impose stricter penalties to curb the problem, ensuring safety and order along the canal’s public spaces.