Land clearance for Hong Kong's Northern Metropolis project in the New Territories has triggered a surge in abandoned pets and guard dogs, overwhelming animal welfare groups.
A South China Morning Post reporter observed nearly 10 stray dogs roaming in Man Kam To near the mainland border. One remaining factory in the area kept five guard dogs.
Animal rights advocates have called the situation critical and urged authorities to establish permanent sites to resettle displaced animals. Kent Luk Ka-chit, founder of the Paws Guardian Rescue Shelter, said many dogs and cats in rural areas traditionally served as guard animals or rodent control.
The lack of a government rehoming policy has left animal welfare groups' clinics overwhelmed.