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Summary The popularity in thoroughbred dogs increases among Hong Kong's trend-obsessed population.
A three-year old Pharaoh Hound called Amber, won the top prize at Hong Kong Kennel Clubs dog show, beating over 200 thoroughbreds for best exhibit in show.Amber was bought by her owner, Godfrey Lau, from Australia six months ago, where she has already won several Australian titles.Lau bought Amber to breed with his existing male Pharaoh Hound, but said that due to their size, he didnt expect there to be a huge market among Hong Kongs space-deprived dog owners.It is because I have bought another, this, a male, I want to breed the Pharaoh Hound in Hong Kong. But I know this kind of dog hasnt any market. But I love this dog, said Lau.Breeding thoroughbred dogs is relatively new in Hong Kong - the Kennel Club has only existed for just over 60 years compared to the UKs more than 200-year history for dog shows - so many people opt to buy from abroad.In fact, Hong Kongs breeding regulations are a cause for much concern among animal welfare activists.Both the primary legislation and the licensing conditions are woefully lacking.No legislation that exists dictates the size of the space provided to the animal for sale and there is no requirement to exercise dogs kept in pet shops or to have veterinary agreements in place ensuring pre-arranged access to veterinary care.Any animals bred or traded by so called hobby breeders (non-licensed) are often much worse off and at serious risk of exploitation and poor welfare as there is no regulation of these breeders or how they trade.
