AFCD catches eight dogs as joint-operation ends

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) apprehended eight dogs during a five-day joint operation with the police, following the fatal dog attack in Yuen Long last week. These canines are currently under observation at the department's animal management centre. Three of the dogs were found to have microchips.

The AFCD has prosecuted one owner for violations under the Rabies Regulation. During the operation, a dog bit a frontline staff member, who is recovering from the injury after receiving treatment and is currently hospitalized. The AFCD has clarified that it will not euthanize the dogs four days after being caught, as the four-day period is merely the legal timeframe for the department to conduct investigations and locate an owner.

If no owner comes forward, the animals will be patiently observed, and healthy, docile ones will be spayed or neutered at animal welfare organizations before being made available for adoption. Unclaimed dogs will not be returned to the community to maintain public safety.