Hong Kong authorities have announced plans for regular enforcement operations and random checks on dogs in public places to ensure compliance with licensing rules.
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department said officers would commence such operations on Monday at public places where dogs gathered. During inspections, officers will conduct random checks on dogs and scan them to verify whether a microchip has been implanted and a valid licence has been issued.
If a dog is found without a valid licence, the AFCD will institute prosecution against the keeper without prior warning. Under Hong Kong’s Rabies Regulation, all dogs aged over five months must be licensed and vaccinated against the viral disease.
Licences are typically valid for three years. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of HK$10,000 upon conviction.
