New | 'Democracy dogs' a hit with Occupy Central protesters

As the stench of pepper spray and tear gas faded from Hong Kong streets and Occupy Central protests took on an increasingly festive mood, many Hongkongers have brought their four-legged friends to participate in the movement for democracy.

One of the "democracy dogs," as fellow protesters affectionately called them, was chihuahua Snowy, who accompanied her owner, 29 year old public relations worker Jan Pang, to the protests in Central on Wednesday.

French bulldog Meimei had goggles and a mask with her "just in case", said owner Alex Holm, a 36-year-old designer.  Holm said he couldn't vouch for Meimei's precise political views, "but she [is] definitely pro-democracy."

"Democracy dogs" also made an appearance in Mong Kok, drawing large crowds hoping for a photo opportunity.