A couple paid hundreds of RMB to hire porters to carry their eight-year-old Golden Retriever up Yuntai Mountain Grand Canyon scenic area in Henan. They walked alongside holding ropes, visibly exhausted. The park confirmed pets are permitted and the act complies with regulations.

Social Context

Pet tourism is booming in China, with 68% of scenic areas now allowing leashed pets after the 2023 National Tourism Standard update. However, the Ministry of Ecology warns against pet transport in ecologically sensitive zones—requiring permits and veterinary health certificates for high-altitude or protected habitats.

Safety Tip

Pet owners must carry portable oxygen kits for dogs above 2,000 meters and limit carrier time to 20-minute intervals to prevent heat stroke—especially for brachycephalic or senior animals.