The Hong Kong Light Rail yesterday launched its “Pets on Board” trial scheme, becoming the first public transport service in the city to allow passengers to travel with pet cats and dogs. This move marks a significant step towards pet-friendly policies in Hong Kong, garnering attention and praise from pet owners. The two-month trial requires passengers to purchase a “Pets on Board Pass” (priced at HK$99 / £10.20) via the MTR e-Store and adhere to regulations, such as keeping pets on a leash or in a pet carrier.
Scheme Details and Public Response
According to the MTR Corporation, the “Pets on Board” scheme applies to all Light Rail routes, operating daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM during the trial period. Pets must be supervised by their owners at all times, with a limit of one pet per passenger. The MTR stated that the scheme aims to address public demand for pet-friendly transport and will evaluate its success to consider expansion to other rail lines, such as the MTR metro system.
Tuen Mun resident and pet owner Ms. Chan expressed her excitement: “I have two cats, and previously I could only rely on taxis. Now the Light Rail allows cats, which is so much more convenient!” However, some passengers raised concerns about potential disruptions caused by pets in carriages, suggesting the introduction of dedicated pet compartments to balance the needs of all users.
Pet Policies in Other Hong Kong Public Transport
Hong Kong’s public transport policies for pets remain largely restrictive. The MTR metro system prohibits pets except for guide dogs, though the MTR announced plans in March 2025 to trial pet-friendly carriages, with further updates expected by mid-year. Kowloon Motor Bus (KMB) introduced a “Pet Bus” service and 10 pet-friendly routes in October 2024, with fares ranging from HK$35 to HK$60 (£3.60 to £6.20) per person and pet, available only on weekends and public holidays. Ferries are currently the most pet-friendly public transport option, with around 80% of inter-island and local routes allowing cats and dogs on leashes or in pet carriers.
Hong Kong’s Lagging Pet-Friendly Policies
Despite the Light Rail’s progressive step, Hong Kong’s pet-friendly policies lag significantly behind international standards. For instance, the city’s Food Business Regulation prohibits cats and dogs from entering restaurants, cafes, and most indoor public venues, with only a handful of pet-friendly establishments (such as certain cafes in Sai Kung and Sha Tin) as exceptions. This contrasts sharply with cities like London and New York, where restaurants often permit pets in outdoor seating areas or even indoors. Additionally, many parks and public spaces in Hong Kong impose restrictions on pets, with some areas outright banning dogs, further limiting pet owners’ mobility. These outdated policies not only inconvenience pet owners but also hinder Hong Kong’s ambition to become a truly pet-friendly city.
Inspiration from International Pet-Friendly Cities
The “Pets on Board” scheme can draw lessons from pet-friendly cities abroad. For example, Greater Manchester’s MetroLink (tram system) allows cats and dogs to travel for free, provided they are on a leash or in a suitable carrier and supervised by their owner. This policy applies to all MetroLink routes, covering central Manchester and surrounding areas such as Altrincham, Bury, and Salford, operating from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM daily. Implemented since 2010, MetroLink’s pet policy has been successful, with Transport for Greater Manchester ensuring compliance through regular inspections and passenger education, making it popular among pet owners.
Similarly, Greater London’s pet transport policies offer valuable insights. The London Underground, Overground, buses, and Docklands Light Railway (DLR) permit small pets (such as cats or small dogs) to travel free of charge, provided they are in a pet carrier or bag. Larger dogs must be leashed, with boarding subject to the operator’s discretion. London’s rail services, including the Elizabeth Line and some National Rail routes, also allow pets, provided they do not disturb other passengers. Transport for London (TfL) promotes harmony through clear guidelines and public awareness campaigns.
Future Outlook
The Light Rail’s “Pets on Board” scheme not only addresses pet owners’ needs but also paves the way for broader pet policy reforms in Hong Kong’s public transport. Drawing on Greater Manchester and Greater London’s experiences, Hong Kong could explore dedicated pet carriages, free travel options for pets, or clearer pet behaviour guidelines to enhance the passenger experience. Greater Manchester’s MetroLink demonstrates that simplified fares and clear rules can encourage pet owners to use public transport while minimising conflicts. Moreover, the government should review outdated hygiene regulations to allow more restaurants and public venues to welcome pets, narrowing the gap with global pet-friendly cities.
The Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr. Tse Chin-wan, previously stated that the government is reviewing pet-related legislation, with a completion expected within a year, potentially leading to further relaxation of pet transport restrictions. Pet owner Mr. Lau expressed optimism: “I hope Hong Kong can follow Manchester and London, allowing pets and owners to travel freely—not just on transport but also in restaurants and parks, making it a truly pet-friendly city!”
