As with most aspects of society, myriad and overlapping legal definitions cover animal welfare and protection in Hong Kong. It is a very important aspect of the inspectorate job to understand and implement the most current interpretations of the governing ordinances to improve animal welfare.
The universally adopted concept of what should be considered as the initial framework for considering animal's in terms of their welfare was defined in the 1970s as the "five freedoms"- 'freedom from discomfort, from hunger and thirst, from fear and distress, from pain, injury and disease and the freedom to express natural behavior'.
Recognising situations that do not rise to level of 'illegal' but which require intervention is a crutial element of the inspectors' job. There are actions taken with pets, in markets, or other surroundings that the common person may find cruel or in humane but do not contravene current Hong Kong laws. Within this framework, the inspectors view these overt or neglectful activities as opportunities; one is to educate and inform the individual on how to better care for the ainmal(s) and the other is to build a case for stronger regulations and harsher penalties.
