Muzzle this dog patrol business, urges Hong Kong animal welfare group
At least 50 estates and commercial complexes use them for security purposes, but concern has been raised at the treatment of retired animals
An animal welfare group has called for the phasing out of patrol dogs as the Post found at least 50 estates and commercial complexes used them to enhance security.
A recent furore over the alleged poor treatment of retired dogs at the Park Island development sparked debate between animal rights activists and the security profession.
Residents at the Sun Hung Kai estate complained that its two retired patrol dogs were being kept in a windowless room and only walked late at night. Requests to take the dogs to a veterinarian to assess their suitability for adoption were rejected.
But Kai Shing, a Sun Hung Kai management company, argued that an animal behaviourist had assessed that the two dogs enjoyed adequate care in terms of accommodation, nutrition and veterinary attention, adding that they had not been put up for adoption as Park Island’s owners’ committee decided to have management continue taking care of them.
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A source in the security business told the Post that at least 50 properties in Hong Kong use patrol dogs, including Residence Bel-Air, Constellation Cove, The Beverly Hills, ifc and Hong Kong Disneyland.
“CCTVs can be damaged, and dogs are also more sensitive and alert than men,” said Marco Mak Yik-Cheong, vice-chairman of the Hong Kong General Union of Security & Property Management Industry Employees, who helps arrange patrol dogs for properties and companies.
He argued dogs were more effective in ensuring security as they have a “threatening” function.
Mak said guidelines were given to management teams, such as ensuring the dogs had sufficient recreation time and cages measuring at least 1.8 metres by 1.8 metres by 1.3 metres.