​The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (August 12) stated that prosecution has been instituted under section 20 of the Rabies Regulation (Cap. 421A) against a local woman on suspicion of keeping 136 dogs without valid licences.

     Following complaints received earlier concerning an animal shelter located in Yuen Long District, the AFCD immediately conducted a blitz inspection of the premises. During the operation, a total of 136 dogs were suspected of being kept without valid licences. The case will be mentioned at Tuen Mun Magistrates' Courts on September 2.

     Under the Rabies Regulation (Cap. 421A), all dogs over 5 months old are required to hold a valid licence, which must be renewed at intervals not exceeding three years thereafter. Any person convicted of an offence is liable to a maximum fine of $10,000.

     An AFCD spokesman reminded dog keepers that regular rabies vaccinations and licensing of dogs are not only statutory obligations, but also important measures to safeguard animal health and public safety. The AFCD will proactively conduct dog licence inspections in public places and institute prosecutions against dog keepers found without valid licences.

Ends/Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Issued at HKT 11:30

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