On October 11, the Ministry of Information and Communications released the special edition stamps under the theme "Dogs," aiming to raise awareness about Vietnam’s biodiversity and the importance of preserving valuable native dog breeds.

The four-square stamps, each measuring 37 x 37 mm, have face values of 4,000 VND and 15,000 VND. The set celebrates the beauty and exceptional qualities of Vietnam's indigenous dogs, often regarded as "national treasures." These breeds share traits such as agility, courage, intelligence, and loyalty.

The design of the stamps, crafted by artist Nguyen Du from Vietnam Post, was based on research and visual materials provided by the Vietnam-Russia Tropical Center.

The Bac Ha dog, native to northern Vietnam, was historically used by the H'Mong people as a hunting and guard dog, particularly in Bac Ha and Si Ma Cai districts of Lao Cai province.

The Song Ma dog (also known as the Lai Song Ma) is an ancient hunting breed native to Vietnam, thriving in the highlands of western Thanh Hoa province and the northern border regions along the upper Song Ma River.

The H'Mong short-tail dog is primarily found in the northern mountainous provinces of Ha Giang, Lao Cai, Lai Chau, and Dien Bien, where it navigates the complex, rugged terrain of the region.

Phu Quoc dogs, native to Phu Quoc Island in Kien Giang province, are well-adapted to the coastal environment, with webbed feet ideal for moving across sandy terrain. These dogs are known for their ability to dig and are often kept as guard dogs and hunting companions.

The "Dogs" stamps will be available through the postal network from October 11, 2024, until June 30, 2026. Enthusiasts can purchase the stamps along with related collectibles such as maximum cards, first-day covers, perforated and imperforate stamps, and specimen stamps via the Vietnam Post website.

According to stamp collectors, the "Dogs" set stands out for its elegant background colors, accentuating the vibrant, detailed illustrations of the dogs in lifelike poses. Collector Hoang Anh Thi, head of the Viet Stamp Club, praised the set, noting how each breed’s unique features are showcased, particularly the Phu Quoc dog’s distinctive ridgeback. The square format of the stamps adds a compact, striking element to the collection.

The "Dogs" stamp set is the 12th postal collection issued by the Ministry of Information and Communications in 2024, following six commemorative and five thematic sets, including stamps on themes such as Love, Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang, Hanoi's Twelve Flower Seasons (Series 1), the 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, Vietnamese Tea, and more.

Van Anh