Shanghai is gradually joining the global trend of pet-friendly travel, but options remain limited. While dedicated “pet-friendly” hotels are rare, several establishments accommodate furry travelers with advance notice. The Ruijin Hotel allows small pets (under 15 kg) with a non-refundable fee (~200 RMB/night), while boutique hotels like The Drama offer pet beds and bowls. Always confirm policies ahead—some luxury hotels may refuse pets entirely. For budget travelers, platforms like Airbnb often have more flexible pet policies.
Which Attractions Welcome Furry Friends in Shanghai?
Shanghai’s pet-friendly attractions focus on outdoor spaces. The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center occasionally hosts “pet-themed days,” but regular access is restricted. Better bets include the Songjiang Snail Pavilion (a riverside park with designated pet areas) and Jing’an International Sculpture Park (open grassy spots). The Pudong Broadwalk along the Huangpu River is a hit—dogs can roam off-leash after sunset, though bring poop bags! Note: Temples, museums, and malls generally ban pets.
What Are the Pet Policies in Shanghai’s Public Spaces?
Public transport in Shanghai is strict: pets aren’t allowed on buses, subways, or taxis (except guide dogs). However, ride-sharing apps like Didi often tolerate small pets with prior approval. For parks, most municipal ones permit dogs on leashes, but popular spots like Yu Garden or The Bund have no-pet zones. A helpful rule: Neighborhoods with older housing (e.g., Hongkou) are more lenient than central tourist areas.
How to Travel with Pets in Shanghai: Tips & Requirements
Traveling with pets to Shanghai requires prep work. China mandates:
- Health Certificate: Issued within 7 days of entry, translated into Chinese.
- Microchip/Vaccination Records: Proof of rabies vaccination.
- Airport Protocol: Pets arrive via cargo (no cabin service for animals >5 kg). Use agents like PetMate for hassle-free logistics. Inside the city, carry a portable litter box, avoid peak hours in pet-friendly areas, and stock up on treats—Shanghai’s heat can exhaust active dogs!
Beyond Shanghai: Pet-Friendly Escapes Nearby
For road-trippers, Suzhou (1 hour drive) boasts the Suzhou Garden pet-friendly paths and lakeside resorts like Liuxiangji. Heading west, Anji (2.5 hours) offers bamboo forests and the Anji Deepina Resort, which lets pets swim in private pools. For beach lovers, Qiandao Lake has sandy shores where dogs can splash freely—perfect for a post-Shanghai getaway!
By blending advance planning with local insights, traveling with pets in Shanghai (and beyond) becomes a rewarding adventure for both two- and four-legged travelers.