Pet adoption in Japan: Things to consider

There’s nothing like coming home to a wagging tail, a soft purr or a joyful hop. In a country where loneliness can quietly settle into daily life, adopting a furry friend can bring much joy and needed companionship. Yet, the pet adoption process in Japan isn’t without its challenges, and many people often look elsewhere before considering it as an option.

As more pets are abandoned — often due to irresponsible puppy/kitten mill breeders, unsold animals from shops or struggling elderly owners — countless animals are waiting for a loving home. While Japan’s pet shops remain popular, a growing “no-kill” movement around the world is encouraging people to rethink where we get our pets from, and how we care for sheltered animals that are still healthy and full of life.

Whether you’re a long-term or permanent resident, this guide will help you find reputable pet shelters, rescue organizations and pet adoption platforms, as well as help you prepare for your new furbaby in Japan.

Things To Consider Before Adopting A Pet In Japan

Welcoming a pet into your life is a wonderful long-term commitment. But living in Japan comes with its own unique challenges, especially when it comes to housing regulations and adoption organization requirements. Here are some things to consider:

Housing Restrictions

Many apartments in Japan have rules regarding pet ownership, so it’s a good idea to check with your landlord or look over your contract to see if pets are welcome. Some may only allow smaller pets or have a strict no-pet policy, so keep inquiring until you find the perfect home!

Size & Breed

What is your future pet’s size and personality? Small dogs, cats or rabbits may be overjoyed to roam cozy apartment spaces, but larger, adventurous pets may need a bit more room to run freely and explore.

Adoption Costs

The cost of adopting can vary from shelter to shelter, and they may cover essential services like vaccinations and neutering. It’s also a good idea to plan for ongoing expenses, such as food, veterinary visits and supplies that help keep your furbaby happy and healthy.

Maintenance Costs

In a 2023 survey, the annual overall cost of owning a dog in Japan was around ¥340,000, while a cat was around ¥170,000. Rabbits were estimated to cost around ¥130,302 and other small animals were ¥95,602. These annual costs take into account medical expenses, food and snacks, supplements, shampoo and haircuts, pet insurance, vaccinations, pet hotels and sitters, collars, leads and clothes, toys and play facilities, disaster prevention supplies, transportation expenses and more.

Application Process

Many organizations require interviews or home visits. If your lifestyle or future plans don’t align with their criteria, such as planning to move to another country, your application may not be accepted. But don’t be discouraged! A loving pet is still out there waiting for you.

Finding a Reputable Adoption Organization

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