The Ombudsman has launched an investigation into the dog-licensing procedures of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) following a public complaint about unexpected new requirements.

The probe was triggered by an incident involving a pet owner who visited an AFCD centre to apply for licences for his microchipped dogs for the first time.

He was informed of a new rule requiring proof of the dogs' legal origins, such as a pet shop receipt, or their vaccination records.

Unprepared for this stipulation, the owner was forced to return home to gather the documents and make a second trip to complete the application.

The complainant raised concerns that the AFCD could not adequately explain the rationale for the new requirement and noted that the information was not available on the department's website.

In response, Ombudsman Jack Chan announced the investigation to identify areas for improvement in the AFCD's licensing application and renewal mechanisms.

He linked the inquiry to the growing trend of pet ownership in Hong Kong, referencing the chief executive’s recent Policy Address initiatives to build a more pet-friendly culture.

"It is crucial for the AFCD to establish reasonable procedures and requirements for dog licence applications and renewals and to provide clear information to the public so as to facilitate dog owners in licensing, vaccinating and microchipping their dogs, as well as renewing dog licences and revaccinating their dogs in a timely manner," he said.

"These measures are essential for preventing the outbreak of rabies and effectively monitoring whether dog owners have fulfilled their responsibilities, thereby protecting the rights and welfare of dogs."

Under the city's Rabies Regulations, all dogs over five months old must be licensed, vaccinated against rabies and microchipped. The AFCD’s animal management centres provide these services.

The Ombudsman's office is inviting public feedback on the matter, with written submissions due by November 17.