The Government is studying other countries' animal-cruelty penalties with a view to increasing the maximum penalty here to boost the deterrent effect, Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr York Chow said.

Speaking in reply to a question from lawmaker Margaret Ng in the Legislative Council today, Dr Chow noted most animal-cruelty cases are due to negligence. Cases of ill treatment of animals with intent are generally uncommon, he added.

Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance (Cap. 169), the maximum penalty for cruelty to animals is currently a $5,000 fine and six months in prison.

"Strengthening enforcement, education and publicity together with deterrent penalty would be an effective way to address the problem," Dr Chow said, adding the Government is open to reviewing the ordinance.

The Government has also produced a radio announcement in the public interest - or API - on the topic of prevention of cruelty to animals, and will produce a series of TV and radio APIs reminding people of the importance of treating their pets well, responsible pet ownership and respect for animals' lives. They will begin broadcasting them this month, Dr Chow said.

Posters and pamphlets on the same topics are in production, to be sent to schools, pet shops, veterinary clinics and private buildings.

He noted other Government departments also play a role in educating the public as to treating animals well.

The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservatio Department conducts regular village and community campaigns, to educate the public to be responsible towards their pets and ensure they comply with vaccination and licensing requirements. The AFCD website contains educational materials available to the public, and the department takes every opportunity in dog shows or animal-related activities to get its messages across.

The Police Public Relations Bureau has an action plan for 2006 to enhance public awareness through Police TV programmes, Junior Police Call radio programmes and press interviews. It aims to highlight the responsibilities of pet ownership and care, and enlist public support in reporting instances of animal cruelty to Police.

Anyone who comes across an act of animal cruelty can call the Police, or call the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department by dialling 1823, the "Citizen's Easy Link" hotline, or by sending an email.

The enforcement agencies will deal with the case as soon as possible upon receipt of a report. If there is sufficient evidence showing that the person concerned violates the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance, the offender will be prosecuted.

The Police and the AFCD will continue to work in close collaboration with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, or SPCA, in tackling these types of offences, Dr Chow said.. 

Where an investigation unit considers a public appeal appropriate for a specific case or series of cases, the Police Public Relations Bureau will also arrange for prompt publicity.

He added the Government remains open to reviewing the relevant ordinance.