Editorial | Pet-friendly services on right road for Hong Kong
Allowing owners to get away with their animals on buses is not only good for them but also the city economy
Pets are increasingly part of family life in the city. It is common to see Hongkongers accompanied by their furry friends, often being pampered or even pushed along in prams.
Care for hundreds of thousands of dogs, cats and other animals contributes to a healthy industry along with their related foods and supplies stores. So, it was good to see a franchised bus operator get on board with a service for pets and their owners that allows them to travel further for fun.
KMB rolled out the city’s first regular animal-friendly public coach service last month. Cats and dogs of all breeds are welcomed aboard the double-decker buses, and fares for passengers with pets are just HK$35 (US$4.50) per ride.
It gives access to some of the 160 parks that allow pets on leashes or areas that let them roam freely.
Trains on the MTR rail network, public buses and trams only allow service animals, such as guide dogs. Pet owners without cars have to rely on being accepted by car-hire services or taxis.
The buses operating on weekends and holidays now offer affordable access to pet-friendly destinations such as Sha Tin, Tsuen Wan, Pak Sha Wan, Sai Kung, the West Kowloon Cultural District and Ma Wan.