AFCD charges dog owner, reviews related penalties

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has formally charged a 52-year-old man for improperly controlling his large dog, which resulted in the fatal attack of two smaller canines in Yuen Long. The suspect is set to appear in Tuen Mun Magistrates Court on Thursday. Authorities are also contemplating additional charges under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance, which imposes more severe penalties.

An AFCD spokesperson explained that the owner allegedly neglected to properly leash his dog in public on multiple occasions since July. This negligence led to the dog attacking three other canines, causing injury to one and death to two on August 17. According to the Dangerous Dogs Regulation, dogs weighing 20kg or more must be leashed to a maximum length of two meters when in public.

Convicted owners face a fine of HK$25,000 and up to three months imprisonment. Should the charges under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance be pursued, the man could be fined up to HK$200,000 and serve a three-year prison sentence. The AFCD emphasized the seriousness of the case and pledged to collaborate with the Department of Justice for investigation and prosecution.

Simultaneously, officers are evaluating if the current penalties are sufficiently punitive to discourage irresponsible behavior by dog owners. The dog involved in the incident is currently under observation at the AFCD's animal management center. The department plans to perform a temperament assessment on the dog to determine the most appropriate handling method. The owner has already signed a consent form to relinquish custody of the animal.