Illegal trading: The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department has seized four Chihuahua pups in an operation against illegal trading of animals.

The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department will prosecute a pet groomer for illegal trading of animals, following the seizure of four Chihuahua pups in a crackdown on online pet trading.

An undercover Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals investigator contacted a trader selling puppies online last month. On July 3 when the transaction was held, department staff found that the sale was inside a pet grooming shop on Chui Fung Street, Wong Tai Sin, allegedly run without an animal trader licence.

Under the Public Health (Animal and Birds) (Animal Traders) Regulations, a valid licence is required for sale of animals including pet dogs and cats. All dogs in a licensed shop must be microchipped and vaccinated against common canine infectious diseases.

People should buy pets only from licensed traders.