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Hong Kong warns a pet-friendly restaurant over dogs at diners
Hong Kong’s Food and Environmental Hygiene Department said it received about 20 complaints since the pet-friendly dining scheme started on July 9.
Hong Kong’s move to allow pets in designated restaurants has triggered public backlash, with lawmakers calling for tighter checks on restaurant permits as complaints mount. According to SCMP Economy, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department received about 20 complaints since the scheme began on July 9.
Most complaints, the department previously said, were minor issues such as leash length and seating arrangements. However, viral clips showing dogs licking plates and sitting on tables and chairs have drawn broader criticism.
On Monday, SCMP Economy reported that a Chinese restaurant in Kai Tak with a pet-friendly permit received a warning letter after inspectors found food was repeatedly cooked or heated on the dining table over three days.
Jonathan Leung Chun, a catering sector lawmaker, said the initial disruption would be temporary as the industry adjusts, according to SCMP Economy.