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The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department today (March 27) reminded the public that an import permit must be obtained from the department before bringing any dogs or cats from other places to Hong Kong.
Earlier today the department foiled an attempt to smuggle a dog into Hong Kong from Mainland China.
A department spokesman said that a man would be prosecuted after being found hiding a dog without any permit or health certification inside a bag he was carrying at the Lok Ma Chau border crossing.
The crossbred poodle puppy was seized and is being held in quarantine. The offender will be prosecuted under Sect.11(1) of the Rabies Regulation, Cap. 421 and is liable for a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment of one year.
Under existing legislation, all imported dogs and cats must be accompanied with certificates and those from some places including Mainland China are also required to be quarantined at the department's animal quarantine centres for four months upon arrival in Hong Kong.
A department spokesman said Hong Kong had been free from rabies since 1987 and the government remained vigilant to prevent any possible outbreak.
Any information on cases concerning smuggling of animals can be reported to the department on 1823 for further investigation.
Ends/Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Issued at HKT 21:19
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