Hong Kong’s Food and Environmental Hygiene Department has brought 20 prosecutions against restaurants that allowed dogs to enter without approval since Hong Kong’s dog-friendly dining measure began on 9 July.
The department has also brought seven prosecutions against people who took dogs into non-approved restaurants. A further two prosecutions involved customers who failed to keep their dogs securely leashed inside approved restaurants during the scheme’s initial adjustment period.
The measure allows dogs to enter restaurants that have received the relevant approval. The department said it conducted inspections, alongside publicity and education, from the measure’s introduction. After the first month, it shifted to risk-based inspections and enforcement.
The department said its approach was intended to balance promoting coexistence between people and pets with food safety and public health.
With the Mid-Autumn Festival approaching, the department has reminded residents to confirm in advance that a restaurant is approved to admit dogs and to follow the relevant rules.