Since the distribution areas of rabies-positive wildlife have not yet been reduced and that the epidemic is still not fully contained, the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) announced on July 31, 2026, that it would amend and extend the control measures of the “Prohibition on the Entry and Transportation of Dogs, Cats, and Other Mammals into Forest Recreation Areas and Forest Parks.” From August 1, 2026 to July 31, 2028, 19 forest recreation venues located in the mountains, including the Manyueyuan National Forest Recreation Area, will be closed off to pets that are mammals to prevent contact with wildlife and reduce the risk of disease transmission. In addition, to cater to the public’s pet recreational needs, six venues have been planned as pilot sites where entry for dogs, cats, and other mammals is permitted, including three national forest recreation areas (Neidong, Chihnan, Jhihben) and three forest parks (Aogu Wetlands, Linhousilin, and Danongdafu). Moreover, to meet the needs of disaster relief in mountainous areas, search and rescue dogs and other working dogs brought by rescue personnel when performing their duties are exempt from the control measures, thereby ensuring that both public safety and disaster response needs are met. Regarding the six designated forest recreation venues, including Neidong National Forest Recreation Area, with restricted entry for pets and mammals, the management authority will conditionally open up some of the areas for entry based on manpower allocation, environmental conditions, and the characteristics of the site. Owners should submit an application for pet entry and bring valid pet registration documentation and proof of rabies vaccination. Before entry into the designated activity area, an admission statement must be filled out promising to comply with the regulations. Pets must be properly leashed with the leash length under 1.5 meters, or placed in a bag, carrier, stroller, or other similar holder at all times. When in the above conditionally open areas, the MOA requests that pet owners to fulfill their management responsibilities, keep the area clean and maintain the natural environment, and clean [Ling1] up pet food and pets’ droppings when leaving the park. Pet owners must not bring pets into closed areas or come into contact with wild animals. If a pet attacks other animals or visitors, or refuses to comply with the instructions of management personnel, the management unit may require the owner to remove the pet from the park immediately, with no refund or compensation provided. In the event of any conflict or damage, the pet owner shall bear the relevant legal responsibility. The MOA would also like to remind the public to refrain from approaching or feeding any wildlife when inside the forest recreation areas. If any wildlife exhibits abnormal behavior or is suspected to be infected with diseases, please immediately notify the onsite staff, the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency, or the local animal epidemic prevention competent authorities. Let us work together to ensure the safety of wildlife, tourists, and pets, and continue supporting rabies prevention efforts.[Ling1]The client has suggested using “cleaning” here, but for grammatical rigor and consistency, it should be “clean,” as the simple present tense “fulfill” and “keep” are used earlier in the sentence.
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