AFCD launches special operations to capture unmanaged dogs in high-risk areas
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department has launched targeted operations to capture unmanaged dogs in high-risk locations, citing public safety and rabies concerns. Captured dogs without owners may be rehomed after assessment, while owners face fines up to HK$10,000 and six months' im
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has initiated a series of special operations to capture unmanaged dogs in high-risk locations across Hong Kong, the department announced on Thursday.
An AFCD spokesperson said that in densely populated urban environments, both stray dogs and those lacking proper control could pose risks to public safety. Dogs left roaming in public places may cause harm to residents or other animals, while those not vaccinated against rabies could threaten public health and animal welfare. The department has adopted a risk-based strategy to identify high-risk areas and will work closely with police to conduct joint enforcement operations when necessary, requiring dog owners to fulfil their responsibilities to protect community safety.
After capturing dogs, the AFCD will check whether they are microchipped and hold valid licences, then contact owners using registration records and cross-check against lost reports. If sufficient evidence is found, owners may be prosecuted. Dogs whose owners cannot be located will be observed by AFCD animal management staff and veterinarians; if confirmed healthy and of good temperament, they will be transferred to partner animal welfare organisations for neutering and offered for adoption. The department stressed it will not release unmanaged dogs directly back into the community to avoid public safety risks.
Under the Rabies Ordinance (Cap. 421) and the Rabies Regulation (Cap. 421A), all dogs over five months old must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies and licensed, with booster vaccinations required at least every three years. Dogs in public places must be kept on a leash or otherwise properly controlled, and owners must not leave dogs unattended or abandon them. Offenders face a maximum fine of HK$10,000 per offence, while abandoning a dog can result in six months' imprisonment.
For more information about proper dog control and owner responsibilities, the public can visit the AFCD website at www.pets.gov.hk.