Hong Kong will review its definition of fighting dogs, controls for dangerous dogs and the adequacy of existing penalties after a series of dog-on-dog and dog-on-human attacks, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said on August 26. The review will be conducted by the Environment and Ecology Bureau and the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.
Lee said dog owners had an important responsibility to keep their animals properly under control in public places, to prevent injury and nuisance to others.
The review will cover the definition of fighting dogs, the handling and control of dangerous dogs, related legislation and current penalties. The government has not announced any amendments to the law or increases in penalties.
Lee said existing rules require dogs weighing more than 20kg to be kept on a lead in public places. Breaches will be handled in accordance with the law.
The government will also step up patrols and strengthen public education. Lee called for co-operation among stakeholders, including animal organisations. No timetable or outcome for the review, or details of the strengthened patrols, has been announced.