Free pet care for dog owners on moving day
The city of Guri announced Wednesday that it is running a year-round free dog-sitting service for households with dogs that are moving into or within the city.
The program was designed to reduce the stress dogs experience from the noise and unfamiliar surroundings of moving day, and to give owners peace of mind during the process. After a pilot phase, the city made the service permanent in the second half of 2025.
On moving day, doors are frequently opened and closed as furniture and belongings are carried in and out, making it difficult to keep a close eye on a dog's safety. In response, the city uses the staff and facilities of its pet care center to provide a safe indoor rest space, along with playtime, snacks and health checks.
The service is available free of charge at the Guri Pet Care Center and requires advance reservations. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Mondays and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
Through the program, the city aims to ease the burden of caring for a dog during a move and help both pets and their owners settle comfortably into a new environment. Guri said it plans to continue expanding practical pet care services as part of a broader effort to build a city where people and animals can live in harmony.
"Moving is a major environmental change not just for people but for pets as well, and that calls for thoughtful consideration," said Min Gyeong-sam, head of Guri's industry support division. "We will continue to pursue pet welfare policies that make a real difference in daily life so that pets and their owners can live happily together."
pjh@heraldcorp.com
