'Dog in Yuen Long mauling may be put down'

A large unleashed dog involved in a fatal attack on two smaller pets near a Yuen Long mall could be euthanized if its owner decides to turn it over to authorities, according to an official. Jackie Yip, an assistant director of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, informed RTHK that the fate of the animal is being discussed with the owner.

If the owner hands the dog over, the AFCD will determine an appropriate course of action, which may include euthanasia. If the owner decides to keep the dog, the department will assess whether it should be listed as a known dangerous dog, requiring it to be muzzled and kept on a leash no longer than 1.5 meters in public. The owner was not present at the scene during the attacks, which occurred on Monday.

The AFCD is currently supervising the dog and the incident is under investigation. The mix-breed canine had also bitten someone in July, resulting in a warning for the owner to keep the dog on a leash. This case is being handled separately. Under the Dangerous Dogs Ordinance, dogs weighing over 20kg must be kept on a leash no longer than two meters in public, with penalties of up to HK$25,000 or three months in jail for offenders.

The Rabies Ordinance mandates that all dogs be kept under control, either by leash, harness, or other means. The AFCD is collaborating with animal welfare groups to raise public awareness about responsible pet ownership and to educate the public about the issue.