Two small dogs died after they were allegedly attacked by a large dog near YOHO in Yuen Long on August 17, police said. The case has been classified as a dog-biting incident and remains under investigation.
The first attack was reported at about 3pm near a car park or taxi-stand area close to YOHO. The victim, a 17-year-old brown miniature poodle, was taken by its owner to a veterinary clinic, where it was pronounced dead. About 20 minutes to half an hour later, the same large dog was suspected of attacking a four-year-old Bichon Frisé near the shopping-mall park. The Bichon was certified dead at the scene.
Reports described the suspected attacking dog as weighing about 60kg and standing roughly one metre tall. One report said it might be a mixed-breed dog, although the breed was not consistently identified. The dog was reportedly wearing a collar but had no leash or muzzle when the attacks took place.
The dog moved or fled towards a nearby road after the attacks. Police used barriers to help control it, while Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department personnel subdued and removed it to an animal management centre.
RTHK reported that officials initially could not scan the dog's microchip because it was in a dangerous emotional state. In a later response, AFCD said examination found that the dog had a microchip and a valid dog licence, and that officials would contact the keeper listed on the licence.
A witness account reported by i-CABLE alleged that the dog's owner did not try to stop the attack and was not present when people searched for the owner. The allegation has not been established as a finding by authorities.
Police classified the matter as a dog-biting case and referred it to AFCD, which said it was investigating and could prosecute if there was sufficient evidence. It remains unclear who was responsible for controlling the dog at the time, why it was loose, what caused the attacks and whether charges will be brought.