Advocates call for higher age restrictions as Hong Kong passes tough new law to kick outdated animal welfare practices
From March 20, all breeders and traders will require a licence, with penalties raised to enforce standards
Dog owner Marco Leung Chun-hin did not go to a pet shop to buy his female Japanese Spitz. Instead, he went to a home breeder that he found online.
“I don’t really trust pet shops because they don’t always tell you the source of the breeding,” the 26-year-old insurance agent said. “However, I can know that by going to the breeder directly and check the living conditions of the dog’s mother. Not to mention it’s much cheaper”
Leung got his dog, named Hung Jai, for HK$4,000 from the breeder’s apartment in Sham Shui Po three years ago. To date, home breeders in Hong Kong have not required a licence to operate, but that is set to change from next month, with the government introducing tighter laws aimed at improving animal welfare practices across the board.
From March 20, all animal breeders, traders and one-off sellers will be required to obtain a licence or permit.
For dog breeders, keeping four or fewer bitches will require a category A licence, while having five or more will require category B. One-off permits valid for a six-month period will be available for dog owners who simply wish to sell their pet.
Watch: High rent forces dog saver out of pet-friendly Ap Lei Chau
