Dog reclassification possible during routine checks

During regular licensing and vaccination appointments, pet owners may discover that their dogs have been reclassified as fighting breeds, according to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD). Principal veterinary officer Michelle Yeung revealed this during an RTHK radio program, noting that there has been a rise in public reports of suspected fighting dogs and that her team conducts more frequent on-site inspections.

The current identification process relies on the visual assessment of a dog's physical traits, such as its head shape, size, and overall body structure, by veterinarians. When there are disputes over classification, the department aims to accurately determine the dog's status. Yeung emphasized that the purpose of fighting dog regulations is to safeguard both public and animal safety.

Dog owners are obligated to renew their dog license every three years, as they need a rabies booster vaccination. During this renewal process, whether the owner visits an external clinic or the AFCD's animal management center for the vaccination, staff will also observe the dog. Yeung assured that if any incorrect classification is observed, it can still be revised.

She cautioned against abandoning pets due to fear. Those who suspect their dog might be in the fighting breed category are advised to bring the animal to the AFCD's animal management center for a thorough assessment. Owners of confirmed fighting breeds can keep their dogs as long as they comply with specific requirements, including neutering, microchipping, wearing a yellow collar with red stripes, muzzling in public, and using a leash no longer than 1.5 meters.

Yeung mentioned that the department is investigating genetic testing as a potential complement to the current identification method, but cautioned that accuracy can be inconsistent among testing providers and that the presence of fighting-breed genes does not always result in distinctive physical traits. Owners dissatisfied with the department's classification can appeal to a review committee for reconsideration.