Gwangjin-gu Operates Our Neighborhood Animal Hospital Support Project for Vulnerable Groups

Starting from March, operated with a budget of 40 million KRW until funds are exhausted
Supports essential treatments up to 300,000 KRW and optional treatments up to 200,000 KRW; personal expenses must be confirmed
Supports up to 2 registered pets per household only

Gwangjin-gu (Mayor Kim Kyung-ho) supports medical expenses for pets of vulnerable groups.

The Our Neighborhood Animal Hospital Support Project is a program that provides medical expenses such as necessary vaccinations for pets to economically disadvantaged basic livelihood security recipients, near-poverty groups, and single-parent families, which started in 2021.

According to the district, as of September last year, there are a total of 13,767 vulnerable households in the area, and the pets they raise number 1,940. Last year, 62 dogs and 18 cats, totaling 80 pets, received treatment.

Support for hospital fees will officially begin in March and operate until the budget is exhausted. Support is only available at five designated local animal hospitals: I-Bone Animal Hospital, Boram Animal Hospital, Seoul Animal Hospital, Gwangjin Animal Medical Center, and Royal Dog & Cat Medical Center.

For essential medical services such as basic health checkups, mandatory vaccinations, and heartworm prevention medication, the individual pays up to 10,000 KRW, while the district covers 200,000 KRW and the designated hospital covers 100,000 KRW, providing a total of medical services worth 300,000 KRW. For optional treatments such as disease treatment discovered during essential care or neutering surgery, only the amount exceeding 200,000 KRW must be paid by the individual.

Applicants must attach identification, animal registration certificate, and proof of vulnerable status. Support is provided for up to two pets per household, and it is much more convenient to visit after making a reservation in advance. Unregistered pets are not eligible for support.

Kim Kyung-ho, Mayor of Gwangjin-gu, said, “The core of this project is to support timely and appropriate treatment for pets in need.” He added, “We will continue to implement policies that provide practical help to socially vulnerable groups who may have difficulties raising pets.”

The district operates three local ‘Our Neighborhood Pet Consignment Offices’ for socially vulnerable groups raising pets and strives to create a mature pet culture.