Hong Kong watchdog warns pet owners to be wary of animal boarding services
- Consumer Council says pet homestay services have become increasingly popular but some may not be fully licensed
Hong Kong pet owners have been urged to conduct thorough checks before sending their animals to boarding services, with a survey finding half of such businesses will not assume legal liability or provide compensation for accidents.
Victor Lam Hoi-cheung, the Consumer Council’s publicity and community relations committee chairman, said anyone who provided food and accommodation for a fee was considered to be operating an animal boarding establishment and required a licence issued by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.
“The Code of Practice under the regulations stipulates that licensed boarding premises must be separated from, and not used for any other purpose except for that of boarding, hence the legality of homestay services may be in doubt,” he said.
Lam urged owners to refer to a list of licensed establishments on the department’s website. But he also noted participation was voluntary, meaning those not on the list might not necessarily be unlicensed.