The Post compares the quarantine policy in the city with the rules adopted in other places, and the need behind the possible relaxation. The quarantine period for pets in Hong Kong depends on the origin of the animals, with the department classifying the areas into three groups. Pets from Group I countries and regions, which include Britain, Australia, Ireland and Hawaii, are not subject to quarantine after they are above two months old, vaccinated and chipped.
Group II countries and places include the continental United States, Canada, Taiwan, Singapore and Guam. Pets from these places will similarly have quarantine waived if they are vaccinated and chipped at the age of five months. Places not specified in the first two groups belong to Group III, where exported pets must undergo a mandatory 120-day quarantine, during which their owners must pay HK$90 (US$11.
5) per day for dogs and HK$46 per day for cats. In mainland China, the required quarantine time for imported pet dogs and cats lasts 30 days. Pets can be released directly if they meet the requirement for exemption from quarantine, including being from designated areas, possessing valid electronic chips and passing on-site quarantine.
In Japan, quarantine periods for imported pet dogs and cats are even shorter. But the pets are required to have implanted microchips. Pets also need to complete the first and second dose of rabies vaccination, as well as an antibody test for the disease to obtain certificates for import in.
