Pet owner barred from leaving Hong Kong pending trial over his dog’s fatal attacks

A man has been barred from leaving Hong Kong pending trial over allegations that he failed to properly control his dog, which mauled two smaller pets to death and injured a third.

Yuen Long resident Ng Shui-ting, 52, appeared at Tuen Mun Court on Thursday to face two charges brought by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.

He allegedly failed to keep the 60kg (132lbs) dog securely restrained on a leash no longer than two metres, allowing it to enter and remain in the open area of Yoho Mall on July 10 and August 17.

Acting Principal Magistrate Daniel Tang Siu-hung adjourned the case to October 29 and granted Ng HK$3,000 (US$383) bail on the conditions that he remain in Hong Kong, live at the Yuen Long address provided to the court and avoid contact with prosecution witnesses.

After the hearing, Ng briefly locked himself in a meeting room to avoid the press before police persuaded him to leave.

Under the Dangerous Dogs Regulation, owners of dogs weighing 20kg or more must keep them securely restrained on a leash no longer than two metres in public places. Violators face a maximum fine of HK$25,000 and up to three months’ imprisonment.