Three dogs poisoned in Hong Kong within 72 hours.
Three pet dogs are believed to have been poisoned to death over a 72 hour period in Hong Kong island last week, which has sparked a police investigation. The dogs involved were a Japanese Spitz, a Labrador and a mongrel. No arrests have yet to be made.
Three suspected poisonings were reported to police between July 12 and 14 in the areas of the Cyberport Waterfront Park and Victoria Road. On July 17, a further police report was filed when a passer-by found suspected poisoned bait again on Victoria Road.
The dog owners had informed the police that they had walked their pets in that area in the morning and the dogs later fell ill and died on the same day. A necropsy and toxicological exam will be conducted to determine whether the cause of death was in fact poisoning.
The Hong Kong SPCA have made an on-site visit to the areas after receiving reports and placed posters in the areas warning pet owners of the current danger. They have encouraged pet owners to keep an eye out for any food bait on the ground and that if owners find their dogs to be unwell afterwards, it is extremely important to take their dog to the vet immediately.
In Hong Kong, there is no specific offence for the administration of poisons or injurious drugs under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance, Cap 169 but would fall under the ambit of section 3 as cruelty to animals. However, poison and poisonous weapons are currently part of the definition of ‘hunting appliance’ under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance, Cap 170. The prohibition against the use of hunting appliances under Cap 170 only extends to wild animals, and companion and domesticated animals fall outside the ambit of the law. It therefore remains possible for poisoners to escape liability where animals cannot be shown to have suffered as a result of their actions and even poisoners caught in the act of leaving bait will continue to be safe from prosecution.
Under the Offences against the Person Ordinance, Cap 212 the malicious administration of poison to any person is a stand-alone indictable offence, carrying a maximum penalty of 3 years’ imprisonment.
Main resource: SCMP