What is Cap.169?
The foundation of animal welfare in Hong Kong relies on the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance, commonly known as Cap. 169. Originally passed in 1935, this legislation was heavily modeled on a UK law, the Protection of Animals Act 1911. While the UK modernised its animal welfare framework in 2006 by introducing a duty of care and a broader concept of animal welfare, Hong Kong’s primary animal protection law remains outdated, with the only major update being an increase in penalties in 2006.
Why We Must Act Now?
Modern science clearly recognises that animals are sentient beings capable of experiencing fear, pain and emotional distress. Sadly, Cap.169 is completely out of touch with this modern standard. Under the current legal framework, authorities often cannot legally intervene to help an animal until it has already suffered severe harm. We desperately need a law built on a proactive, preventative approach – one that stops neglect and abuse before suffering begins.
Learn more about the current legislation and our proposed amendments in the tabs below.
Cap. 169: Hong Kong’s Animal Protection Law Is Long Overdue for Change
The foundation of animal welfare in Hong Kong ...
The SPCA's Proposed Reforms to Cap. 169
The law should not only punish cruelty after serious suffering has happened ...
Duty of Care: Protecting Animals Before Harm Is Done
Animal welfare is about how well an animal is coping with the conditions in which it lives, the treatment it receives ...
