Dogs to be allowed in up to 1,000 Hong Kong eateries in first phase of new rules

Hong Kong authorities will allow up to 1,000 restaurants to welcome pet dogs in the initial stage, with the first group of approved eateries expected to receive licences by June.The Environment and Ecology Bureau said on Tuesday that it aimed to submit the proposed amendments to the Food Business Regulation, which currently prohibits dogs on food premises, within the first quarter of this year.“The first batch of restaurants can apply for permits by May, allowing dogs into restaurants by June,” a government spokesman said, adding the scheme would be introduced “step by step” as Hong Kong shifted towards a more pet-friendly society.In a paper submitted to the Legislative Council, the bureau said all licensed restaurants could apply to become dog-friendly premises, except those serving hotpot and barbecue due to “safety concerns”.It suggested setting a quota of about 500 to 1,000 eateries, or 3 to 5 per cent of Hong Kong’s restaurants, in the first phase. Authorities would draw lots if there was an excess of applications.Depending on demand and feedback from caterers, authorities would consider opening up a second batch of restaurants for registration by the end of the year, the spokesman said. He added that the bureau had no fixed target for the scheme.