20 restaurants prosecuted for allowing dogs without permits since scheme launched

Hong Kong authorities have prosecuted 20 restaurants for allowing dogs without proper permits since the city's dog-friendly dining scheme began in July. Seven individuals were also prosecuted for bringing dogs into eateries without permission, while four others faced charges for failing to keep their pets securely leashed in permitted restaurants.

The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department explained that it had adopted a "pragmatic and flexible" enforcement approach to balance pet inclusivity with food safety and public hygiene. More than 990 restaurants currently hold permits for canine visitors. As Halloween approaches, residents are advised to check whether their chosen restaurant is permitted to admit dogs.

Permitted restaurants must adhere to specific rules, including not using open-flame cooking at dining tables, keeping dogs out of food rooms, and refusing entry to fighting or dangerous dogs. Dogs must always be securely held by an adult on a leash no longer than 1.5 meters or tethered to a fixture while inside a restaurant. The scheme, which began on July 9, allowed 940 restaurants and eateries to resume dining with their pets, ending a 30-year ban imposed to prevent rabies.

However, some restaurants later withdrew from the scheme due to limited manpower, space constraints, and cautious diners. Violations can result in fines up to HK$10,000 (US$1,275), three months' imprisonment, and a daily fine of HK$300 for ongoing offenses. "Fighting dogs" under the Dangerous Dogs Regulation include specific breeds and their crossbreeds.