FEHD logs minor growls in mass dogs-in-eateries checks

A new policy that gives the green light for dogs to be brought into eateries by diners has seen a smooth start so far in designated restaurants, according to the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, with 2,300 inspections carried out and just a score of minor grouses recorded.

The first phase of the policy was launched in more than 940 restaurants across the city on Thursday.

Speaking on an RTHK radio programme on Monday, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) director Albert Yuen said the 2,300 checks were made by a 90-strong dedicated team set up to assist operators adapt to the scheme, with 400 of those visits made to eateries that had yet to obtain the dog-friendly licence.

“During the period, we have received a small number of complaints – around 20,” he said.

“They mainly involved minor violations, such as the length of leashes, the positions where dogs were sitting. We will follow up and investigate.”

During the one-month adaptation period, officers will mainly focus on giving guidance, Yuen said, with the priority being offering advice first and foremost instead of taking enforcement action.

However, he warned, that did not mean officers would turn a blind eye on violations of regulations as they will issue warnings for serious infractions.

They will also take resolute enforcement actions if there are cases that seriously affect environmental hygiene or food safety during the adaptation period.

A small number of eateries, Yuen said, had opted out of the scheme, mainly because they needed more time to fine-tune operational arrangements such as manpower needs and arrangements for venue partitions, as well as in response to customer feedback.

As the new policy lifts a decades-old ban, he said, temporary withdrawals are a “responsible decision” if the eateries are not fully prepared as they will help improve the dining experience and service quality.

Yuen too confirmed earlier indications over the timeline for the next round of applications, saying they would begin as soon as six months and that the FEHD would make enhancements if necessary to ensure that the policy continued to be implemented in a stable and orderly manner.

Edited by Tony Sabine ...