Conclusion of joint dog capture operation in Yuen Long
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During the five-day operation, the AFCD captured a total of eight unattended dogs, which were immediately transferred to the AFCD's Animal Management Centre for detention and observation. Three of the dogs were implanted with microchips, but their licences had expired. Following investigation, the AFCD has instituted prosecution against the registered keeper of one of the dogs for suspected contravention of Section 20 of the Rabies Regulation (Cap. 421A) (failure to hold a valid dog licence) and Section 23 of the Rabies Ordinance (Cap. 421) (failure to keep the dog under proper control in a public place). The AFCD is making every effort to investigate the remaining cases and is co-operating with the Police in their investigation to help establish the facts of the incident.
A frontline staff member of the AFCD sustained a dog bite to the hand while performing related duties on September 23. His condition is stable after treatment and he is currently under observation in hospital.
Regarding the handling of unattended dogs, the AFCD makes the following supplementary remarks:
Necessity of capturing unattended dogs
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Dog capture operations are necessary in order to eliminate community safety risks as soon as possible and safeguard the lives of members of the public.
The AFCD will continue to arrange capture and enforcement operations at locations with more serious problems on a risk-based principle to control the number of unattended dogs.
Handling of unattended dogs after capture
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There have been rumours circulating in the community alleging that the AFCD engages in "convenience culling" and that animals will be euthanised four days after intake. The AFCD solemnly clarifies that these claims are untrue.
The AFCD handles unclaimed dogs in accordance with the Rabies Ordinance and related legislation. The four-day period stipulated by law is simply the statutory timeframe required for the AFCD to make enquiries and locate the keepers. After capturing dogs, the AFCD will check whether the dogs have been microchipped and licensed, and will contact the keepers and verify lost-and-found records based on the registration information. If the keepers cannot ultimately be traced, staff and veterinary officers at the Animal Management Centres will patiently observe the animals received. Dogs that are in good health and have a gentle temperament will be transferred to the AFCD's partner animal welfare organisations for sterilisation and rehoming. The AFCD will not release dogs without keepers back into the community so as to avoid posing public safety risks.
The time from intake to transfer to partner organisations depends on the animals' health condition, temperament and the receiving capacity of the relevant organisations, and generally takes several weeks to several months. The AFCD has all along been committed to balancing animal welfare and public safety, and will continue to co-operate with partner animal welfare organisations to promote sterilisation and adoption.
Responsibilities of dog keepers
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As a registered dog owner, one must assume the responsibilities of a keeper, properly control the dog, and fulfil the commitment of caring for it throughout its life. Allowing a dog to roam unattended in public places may cause harm to other persons or animals, and abandoning a dog is an offence.
The AFCD reminds dog keepers that, in addition to licensing their dogs, they must also regularly vaccinate their dogs against rabies and renew the licences. The Department has stepped up dog licence inspections and will strictly enforce the law against violations.
Sterilisation cannot eliminate risks
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In a high-density urban environment, unowned and uncontrolled dogs may pose risks to public safety, and such risks cannot be eliminated by sterilisation alone.
Therefore, the AFCD will continue to manage stray animals using a multi-pronged approach in line with the international standards set by the World Organisation for Animal Health. This includes promoting responsible pet ownership and proper animal care through publicity and education, as well as collaborating with animal welfare organisations to promote sterilisation and adoption.
Measures to take upon encountering unattended dogs
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If members of the public encounter suspected unattended dogs, they should not attempt to catch or provoke the animals themselves. Instead, they should report the matter by calling 1823 so that the AFCD can follow up. In case of emergency (for example, if the dog displays aggressive behaviour or poses an immediate danger), please call the Police for assistance immediately.
Ends/Thursday, September 24, 2026
Issued at HKT 23:20
Issued at HKT 23:20
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