Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog has issued a warning to pet owners regarding the licensing and price transparency of pet homestay services in the city. The Consumer Council highlighted on Monday that many pet boarding services have emerged, offering care for pets while their owners are away, but not all are operating legally.
The Council pointed out that several of these services lack the necessary Boarding Establishment Licence from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD). Utilizing unlicensed services can pose safety risks, as these establishments may not adhere to the hygiene, enclosure, and facility standards recommended by the AFCD.
In a survey of 18 licensed boarding establishments, the Council discovered that only six provided a comprehensive price list online. The remaining establishments required potential customers to contact them directly for pricing information, resulting in low price transparency and potential confusion that could lead to disputes.
The watchdog emphasized that the fees for dog hotels often vary based on the dog’s weight or size, with different establishments using varying standards for these measurements. This lack of uniformity adds another layer of complexity for consumers trying to compare services.
Currently, inclusion on the “Licensed Boarding Establishment List” on the AFCD’s website is voluntary, meaning the list does not encompass all licensed establishments. The Consumer Council has urged the AFCD to consider making this list mandatory, ensuring consumers have access to comprehensive information to make informed decisions.
Consumers are advised to thoroughly inquire about the details and terms of charges, compare different services, and seek clarifications from providers when selecting a boarding establishment for their pets.
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