Hong Kong animal rights groups advocate for more pet friendly public transport.
"Pet carriages" have not been spotted in Hong Kong for many years, but with the increased number of "fur babies", some dog owners have criticised the policy for being backwards. Certain animal rights organisations suggests that "pet carriages" could be implemented on a trial basis during off-peak hours.
Pet owner Amity expresses:
"If my dog doesn't go out, its body response will not be as good. There has been previous occasions during typhoons when I was unable to take my dog out, and it seems to be sullen all day long. When we go out, it will usually be on Sunday, and we go out for the whole day.”
However, the cost of leaving from the hustle and bustle of the city is not low. Currently, pets are not allowed on most public transportation vehicles. Amity also does not have a private car, therefore if she wishes to take her dog to the countryside to recharge, she will have to hire a car.
Amity further commented:
"I have previously looked into going to some places that are a bit further from the city such as Inspiration Lake. However, it may cost HK$300 for a one-way trip, HK$600 for a round trip. In addition, sometimes it is inconvenient to get on vehicles, as I will take out a pet cart for my dog. If I bring my dog out by myself, I have to fold the pet cart and store it somewhere, then also hold onto my dog with my arms. It becomes quite cumbersome.”
She hopes the government will allow more public transport for pets.
At present, the most pet friendly public transportation is ferry service. There are 18 ferry routes in Hong Kong that allow passengers to bring pets on board, accounting for more than 80% of all ferry routes in Hong Kong, but the pet must be led by a leash or put in a pet bag.
An animal rights organisation recently interviewed more than 1,000 citizens and found that more than 70% of Hong Kong residents support allowing dogs to ride on the MTR and buses, and recommends an initial trial run during off-peak hours.
Karina, the Animal Welfare Education Manager of Animals Asia Foundation, states:
"I understand that some pet owners may feel that this is not completely inclusive, but you have to consider all passengers, all different opinions and stakeholders. If we can allow pets to board public transport, but in designated locations only, I don't think it's the worst thing in the world."
She suggested that the government should conduct public consultations on pets taking different types of public transport to understand public opinion.
We have inquired with local public transport operators about setting up pet carriages. MTR pointed out that it will keep an open attitude and maintain communication with different stakeholders. It also pointed out that as the railway utilisation rate is very high, and it is necessary to balance the safe and smooth operation of passengers and railways, taking into account the reactions of animals in a constricted environment.
Both KMB and Citybus & NWFB stated that, as restricted by law, passengers are not allowed to bring animals on the bus except guide dogs, and will continue to communicate with the government or stakeholders.
Hong Kong Tramway and the Star Ferry pointed out that they operate semi-open transport vehicles. Hence, it may be dangerous for pets to ride, with a risk of the pets going over the barrier of the vehicle.
Courtesy of Chloe Ip
Main Source: NOW
