Editorial | To walk the pet-friendly path, Hong Kong needs a comprehensive policy
The city will have to balance the interests of pet owners and those of others, but it’s time it moved forward on becoming more pet-friendly
The city, with its small flats and crowded streets, has long adopted a conservative approach to pet ownership, imposing many restrictions. Despite this, the number of pets in Hong Kong has soared. Official statistics reveal over 240,000 households own more than 400,000 cats and dogs.
Attitudes to pets are gradually changing for the better. But Hong Kong still has a long way to go. Dogs are generally not allowed in public housing estates, although many private developments have long accepted them. Pets are not permitted on most forms of public transport. Pet-friendly spaces are in short supply. There is a need for a clear and comprehensive policy in all relevant areas if the city is to become a place where pets are embraced rather than merely tolerated. It is important to strike the right balance, given the risk of conflicts between the interests of pet owners and those of others.
There is a need to maintain high standards of hygiene, safety and orderly conduct. As pet ownership grows, effective laws are also required to ensure animals are properly cared for. Hong Kong’s animal cruelty law is out of date and inadequate as problems, including trapping, smuggling and abandonment, persist. The government should press on with plans to update it.
Participants in Dogathon, which includes a festival at Disneyland and a 5km walk to raise funds for the SPCA, can obtain an MTR “Woof Pass” by making a HK$90 donation. Only small and medium-sized dogs are eligible and they must be completely enclosed in carriers. Bus operator KMB will run “Pet Buses” from six locations.