An official on Wednesday said a large unleashed dog that attacked and killed two smaller pets by a Yuen Long mall on Monday could be put down if the owner decides to hand the animal over to the authorities.

Jackie Yip, an assistant director of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), told RTHK that authorities are discussing the animal's fate with the owner.

"If the owner ultimately decides to hand the dog over to the government, we will determine an appropriate arrangement. If necessary, we will also consider euthanasia," Yip said.

If the owner opts to keep the dog, Yip said her department would then decide whether to list it as a known dangerous dog – a designation that would require it to be muzzled, and put on a leash no longer than 1.5 metres while in public.

Yip confirmed that the owner was not present at the scene during the attacks on Monday, adding that details of the case would be kept confidential while the investigation continues.

The dog is now under AFCD supervision.

Yip also said the mix-breed canine was involved in a separate biting incident in July, which resulted in a warning for the owner, who was instructed to keep the dog on a leash. That case is being investigated separately.

Yip noted that according to the Dangerous Dogs Ordinance, dogs weighing over 20kg are required to be kept on a leash no longer than two metres in public, with offenders facing penalties of up to HK$25,000 or three months’ jail.

She also reminded all dog owners that the Rabies Ordinance mandates all dogs be kept under control – by leash, harness or other means.

Yip also warned that keeping dogs off leash is irresponsible, especially for larger breeds. She said the AFCD is working with animal welfare groups to raise public awareness about such issues, and to better educate the public about responsible pet ownership.



Edited by Cecil Wong