Pets

Pets are popular in the Netherlands! You will see people walking their dogs around town, and also taking them into stores! The most common pets in Dutch homes are dogs, cats, birds, fish, and rabbits.

Rules regarding dogs

Dogs are only allowed to be off of a leash at a designated honden-losloopterreinen. Dog owners who do not pick up after their dog can be fined.

Dog Tax

Dog owners must pay a dog tax. The amount of tax depends on which city you live and how many dogs you have.

Veterinarians

There are many dierenartsen (veterinarians) in the Netherlands.

Animal food

Food for animals can be bought at dierenwinkels (pet stores), which also sell treats, games, toys, beds, and other things for pets. Pet food and treats can also be found at most supermarkets.

Finding a pet

If you find a lost or abandoned pet, you can take it to an asiel (animal shelter). The people working there will try to trace the original owner or find a new one. If you want to buy a pet, pet stores sell small animals, such as rabbits and guinea pigs. For cats and dogs, contact the local animal shelter or an official breeder.

De dierenambulances

Brabant Zuid-Oost (animal ambulances for Southeast Brabant, including Eindhoven) transports sick, injured and lost animals, to a near by shelter, veterinarian or animal hospital. If you see an animal that needs emergency care in Eindhoven, call them at 0900 - 112 0000. They are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Ik zoek baas! is a website where you can find pets who are up for adoption.

www.ikzoekbaas.nl

Dog obedience school

There are a number of hondenscholen (dog obedience schools) and hondenuitlaatservices (dog walking services) throughout the region.

Boarding kennels

When you go on holiday, you can leave your pet with a neighbor, a friend, or at a dierenpension (boarding kennels).

“Taking your dog for a walk is a great way to get to know your neighborhood and your neighbors! When we moved to a new neighborhood I met many of my neighbors while walking my dog, Pepper!”

- Olivia van den Broek-Neri