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For tips on boosting luck and fortune in the Year of the Ox, you may want to hear what feng shui masters have to say. But some matters can certainly be taken into your own hands, such as your home. With the pandemic changing the way we work, many of us are spending more time at home than before. The New Year is a great opportunity to give your home a deep clean and makeover. Whether you believe in feng shui or not, you’re sure to be happier when you have a tidy and comfortable living environment!

Lucky charms: Common auspicious decorations for the home include gourd-shaped charms (葫蘆), vases, and bagua (八卦) charms.

Paintings: If you’re thinking about adding an art piece or two to your walls, you may want to choose paintings of pine or sunflowers, which are considered lucky and auspicious.

Plants: The pandemic has also sparked a plant frenzy, with many people discovering the benefits of having greenery at home. Plants are also good for feng shui, adding more life and vibrancy to your living space. However, if you have pets at home, you should read up on pet-safe plants as many common houseplants are toxic for dogs and cats*.

Spring cleaning: An annual deep cleaning is a Chinese New Year tradition, and it makes good sense. Take this time to declutter your home and get rid of things that don’t spark joy. Instead of tossing everything in the trash, think about how you can discard of old items responsibly, such as recycling or donating them to those in need.

We all hope luck will turn in the new year, and the pandemic will be behind us. While we wait for the economy to recover, many of us are looking for ways to save and cut unnecessary expenses. For homeowners, taking stock of your home insurance^ policies is a good place to start.

When applying for a mortgage, your lender bank will require your property to be covered by a fire insurance policy (also known as buildings insurance). Most fire insurance plans available are quite similar in what they cover, which generally are damages to your home’s structure caused by fire, lightning, typhoon, windstorms, or flooding. For convenience, many homeowners choose to buy fire coverage through their lender banks, which can cost them up to 0.15% of their sum insured every year.

There are a lot of expenses that come with owning property, but that also means there are many areas where savings can be made. OneDegree Fire Insurance, for instance, offers the same coverage as other plans on the market but policyholders will only have to pay 0.03% of sum insured. If you have a HKD 4,000,000 mortgage, you’d be paying up to HKD 4,800 less every year with OneDegree than with another insurer. That will add up to significant savings a few years down the road, which can be spent on something more worthwhile.

Out with the old, in with the new. Start the new year with OneDegree Fire Insurance and let us help you put more money back in your pocket.

^For more about different types of home insurance: What kind of property insurance do I need for my home?
*If you have pets at home: Decorating your home with plants? Make sure they’re safe for your pets

The New Year is a great opportunity to give your home a deep clean and makeover. Whether you believe in feng shui or not, you’re sure to be happier when you have a tidy and comfortable living environment!

Home tips for Chinese New Year & how to save on property insurance

Getting around the city with your furry friends is not easy if you don’t own a car. In Hong Kong, pets aren’t allowed on the MTR or on buses - with the exception of guide dogs - and breach of this rule can result in a fine of up to HKD 5,000. While our pets don’t go out as much as we do, there are still times when they need a ride, such as an emergency trip to the vet or a visit to a pet park in another neighborhood. We’ve compiled a handy list of pet-friendly transportation below. Read on for more details!

<table style="border-collapse:collapse;border-spacing:0" class="tg"><thead><tr><th style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-weight:normal;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Provider </th><th style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-weight:normal;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Number of Pets Allowed &amp; Extra Charges </th><th style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-weight:normal;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">24-hour service? </th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">99VIP </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">No extra charge </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Reserve in advance </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Golden Pet Pet Express </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">No extra charge </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Yes </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Uber Pet </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">HKD 20 (limited to one pet; contact driver if you need to travel with more than one pet) </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Yes </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Taxi </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Extra HKD 5 per animal </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Yes </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Total Van </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">No extra charge </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Yes </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">GOGOX (GOGOVAN) </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">HKD 10 (no limit on number of pets) </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Yes </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Lalamove </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">HKD 10 (limited to 5 pets; if more than 5, contact Lalamove for options) </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Yes </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Power-King Transportation (勁達) </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">No extra charge </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Yes </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">CALL 4 VAN </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">HKD 10 (no limit on number of pets) </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Yes </td></tr></tbody></table>

99VIP is a one-stop shop for pet services including transportation, boarding, grooming, and animal communication. For their door-to-door transport service, the minimum fare is HKD 130 per ride (HKD 160 for Hong Kong Island). 

Website: www.facebook.com/99Vans/
Contact: 6056 7758 (Whatsapp)

This pet transport service under Golden Pet Pet Shop boasts a team of drivers certified in animal first aid and trained to handle emergencies. They don’t impose extra charges for transporting sick or injured pets.

Website: www.facebook.com/goldenpetpet/
Contact: 6992 5221 (Whatsapp) 

The launch of Uber Pet in Hong Kong last year was much welcomed news for pet parents. Fares are the same as UberX with an additional HKD 20 fee (except guide dogs and other working dogs). Every ride is limited to only one pet.

Website: www.uber.com/zh-HK/blog/pet-hk-rider/
Contact: Uber’s website or Facebook page

The delivery services listed above can also transport pets. Total Van and Power-King don’t charge extra for carrying furry friends, while others tack on a small fee on top of the regular fare. Some providers have limits on the number of pets allowed per ride and there may be cleaning surcharge if your pet vomits or has an “accident” in the vehicle.

Before specialized pet transportation came along, taxi was the only option for many pet parents. It is the cheapest option on the list (taxi fare + HKD 5 per animal), but taxi drivers can refuse to carry pets if they wish. It’s worth trying out other more pet-friendly options and find one that works best for you.

Unlike MTR and buses, there are no explicit rules prohibiting pets on minibuses. It’s up to the minibus company or driver whether you can travel with your furry companion.

Other Ways to Get Around with Your Pet

Founded in 2012, 99bus now has 30 stops across Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and New Territories, transporting furry friends to pet-friendly destinations. To take part in a 99bus trip, pet parents can first purchase tickets online, then board the bus at their designated stop. It’s also a great way for your pet to make new friends, and for you to meet other pet parents too!  

The Sun Ferry is probably the only public transport in Hong Kong that welcomes pets. It currently operates the following 5 routes:

North Point ＜＞ Hung Hom
North Point ＜＞Kowloon City
Central ＜＞Cheung Chau
Central ＜＞Mui Wo
Inter-Island Ferry: Stops at Peng Chau, Mui Wo, Chi Ma Wan, and Cheung Chau

PetBacker is an app that enables pet parents to connect with providers of all kinds of pet services, including pet sitting, boarding, grooming, and transportation. It’s not that widely used in Hong Kong at the moment, and like other similar platforms, the quality of service varies.

It’s the responsibility of pet parents to keep an eye on their furry ones while in transit and work with drivers to ensure a smooth journey for everyone.

In Hong Kong, pets aren’t allowed on the MTR or on buses with the exception of guide dogs. While our pets don’t go out as much as we do, there are still times when they need a ride, such as an emergency trip to the vet or a visit to a pet park in another neighborhood. We’ve compiled a handy list of pet-friendly transportation below.

9 Pet-Friendly Transportation Options in Hong Kong

You finally pulled the trigger and bought your first home, or you’re trading up to a bigger apartment for a growing family. Whichever the case, congratulations! Home purchase is usually one of the biggest financial decisions one makes in life, especially in Hong Kong where property prices are among the most expensive in the world. That means it is imperative for homeowners to have the right property insurance in place to protect them from fire, theft, burst pipes, and other risks.  

Home insurance is an umbrella term that covers different types of coverage for a residence. Here are the most common, and important, coverages to have as a homeowner:

Fire Insurance is the most fundamental of property insurance, covering damages to the structure and permanent fixtures of your home, as such walls, ceiling, and floor. If you’re taking out a mortgage, your lender will require you to obtain fire insurance for the property before approving your loan. Fire insurance plans are quite similar in coverage across providers, and most give policyholders the option to extend protection to other hazards, such as typhoons, sprinkler leakage, or riots.    

There’s a lot to take care of when buying property, so many homebuyers may choose to buy fire coverage through their lender bank. However, they don’t always get the best rate that way. Take your time to shop around, and you’d be surprised at the savings you can pocket. OneDegree Fire Insurance is an affordable alternative and has a best-price guarantee.

Fire insurance won’t cover the contents in your home (think furniture, TV, refurbishments, electronics, etc.), which leads us to Home Content Insurance.

You may have spent a lot of effort and money furnishing and decorating your dream home. It is also a place where we tend to keep our most prized possessions. Therefore, as a homeowner, it’s important to make sure the contents in your home are also protected. Unlike Fire Insurance, Home Content Insurance options are more diverse as homeowners’ needs vary greatly.

In addition to providing financial assistance when items in your home are damaged, some plans offer extra benefits you may find useful. For example, certain policies will cover damages to items during a move and cover the costs of alternative accommodations when your home is under repair. Some plans will even provide compensation when accidents happen to you or your family members at home or offer a 24-hour assistance for plumbing and other home assistance needs.

Many home insurance plans will include legal liability coverage, which protects you in the event of a third party injuring themselves in your home or damages caused to another’s property due negligence on your part. You can also purchase liability protection separately or top up on what your existing policy offers to give you an extra peace of mind.

You’ll often see plans that bundle all three types of property insurance together, and possibly other additional protection such as construction or burglary insurance. Comprehensive plans are good options for homeowners who are willing to pay higher premiums for greater protection. 

Before deciding on your home protection, weigh the benefits provided and your actual needs. Many homeowners find they are adequately covered with a fire insurance policy (as mentioned, coverage is almost identical across providers) and a basic home insurance plan. They would also be paying lower premiums than if they went with a comprehensive plan.

Home purchase is usually one of the biggest financial decisions one makes in life. That means it is imperative for homeowners to have the right property insurance in place to protect them from fire, theft, burst pipes, and other risks.

What kind of property insurance do I need for my home?

Is your home ready to welcome the Year of Ox? While we’re busy cleaning and prepping for the new year, we should also be aware of our furry friends’ safety. Many popular treats enjoyed during Chinese New Year and decorative flowers can be harmful for pets if ingested. Read on to find out how to keep your furry one safe during the festivities.  

We love indulging in traditional Chinese New Year treats such as sweet rice cake and radish cakes. But for our pets, the foods’ high fat content may cause diarrhea, vomiting, and other digestive discomfort; in more serious cases, they can even result in pancreatitis. It’s best to keep these treats out of your pet’s reach and to remind guests not to feed any to your furry one either.

Xylitol is a very common sugar substitute, found in chewing gum, candies, and other low or sugar-free products. However, for dogs, this sweetener is poisonous. A dog’s pancreas will confused xylitol with real sugar, causing a release of insulin, and and subsequently a drop in blood sugar levels. It can cause weakness, disorientation, seizures, liver damage, or it can even be fatal for dogs. Therefore, it’s very important to check whether treats you have at home contain any xylitol.

Grapes or raisins can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or abdominal pain for dogs. For more serious cases, ingesting this fruit can cause kidney failure.

Most people may already know this: Chocolate is very dangerous for dogs. But it’s worth repeating ahead of Chinese New Year, as chocolates are common holiday gifts. It’s hard to resist the temptation of chocolate as humans, but for dogs, ingesting even a little bit can be fatal. Take extra precautions to keep chocolate treats away from your furry one and ask your guests to do the same.

These common festive blooms are toxic for our pups and kitties:

<table style="border-collapse:collapse;border-spacing:0" class="tg"><thead><tr><th style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-weight:normal;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal"> </th><th style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-weight:normal;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Cats </th><th style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-weight:normal;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Dogs </th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Tulips </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Ingesting parts of a tulip plant can lead to severe renal failure and even be fatal. </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Digestive discomfort, excessive saliva, vomiting, diarrhea, or even cause depression, convulsions, or irregular heartbeat. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Daffodils </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Eating part of the plant, especially the bulb, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat. </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Accidental ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation. In more serious cases, it can cause convulsions, low blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Begonia </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Can cause symptoms including diarrhea, vomiting, and seizure. </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Can cause symptoms including salivation and vomiting. </td></tr></tbody></table>

There are many other common houseplants that are toxic for pets, including dieffenbachia, lilies, and rhododendrons. Read more about them in this post: Decorating your home with plants? Make sure they’re safe for your pets.

Many pet parents will probably want to take advantage of the four-day holiday and take their furry ones for a fun day out. If you’re planning a hike, don’t forget to take prevention measures against fleas and ticks! Also, keep in mind that the country parks belong to everyone. Read our post about hiking with your pet for things to pay attention to as a responsible pet owner.

Thinking about taking your pet for one last groom before the new year? If you’re looking for a grooming service, we can recommend Posh Paws Resort in Yuen Long. It offers variety of services including a pet hotel and a swimming pool for dogs. Pet grooming starts from HKD 220. Visit their website for more details.

Finally, in case of any unexpected accidents or illnesses over the holiday, the following clinics offer 24-hour service:

<table style="border-collapse:collapse;border-spacing:0" class="tg"><thead><tr><th style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-weight:normal;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal" colspan="3">Hong Kong Island </th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">The Ark Veterinary Hospital </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Shop 1, G/F, 25-35A Water St, Sai Ying Pun </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">2549 2330 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">9Lives Veterinary Emergency Centre (VEC) </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Shop 4-6, G/F, Shun Fai Bldg 19, Hau Wo St, Kennedy Town </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">2334 2334 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">North Point Animal Hospital </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">19 Kin Wah St, North Point </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">2307 6622 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">East Island Animal Hospital </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">256 Shau Kei Wan Rd </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">2915 3999 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal" colspan="3">New Territories </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Pet Pet Animal Medical Center </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">1,3&amp;4, G/F, Crystal Park, 50 Ma Tin Road, Yuen Long </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">3708 8770 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal" colspan="3">Kowloon </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Macpherson Animal Clinic </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">G/F, 26 Sai Yee St, Mong Kok </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">2781 2386 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">CityU Veterinary Medical Centre </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">339 Lai Chi Kok Rd, Sham Shui Po </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">3650 3000 </td></tr></tbody></table>

The clinics above belong toOneDegree’svet network.PawfectCare policyholders visiting network clinics can get 90% of expenses reimbursed. See here for a complete list of our network clinics.

Many popular treats enjoyed during Chinese New Year and decorative flowers can be harmful for pets if ingested. Read on to find out how to keep your furry one safe during the festivities.

Keep your pets safe during Chinese New Year holiday

Cats may seem to be independent creatures that demand little of your attention. But like humans, they are also susceptible to various illnesses and health issues. It’s our responsibility as pet parents to recognize when something’s wrong with our feline friend. Here are some common health problems for cats, as well as things you can do to prevent them. It’s easier to treat a condition that’s identified early on, so be attentive of any symptoms and take them to the vet as soon as possible.

Diabetes is a common condition that can develop in cats, especially in older male feline that are overweight, neutered, and eat mostly dry food. The type of diabetes cats mostly suffer from is Type II, which is when the body cells don’t respond well to insulin, a necessary hormone to regulate blood sugar level.

Weight loss despite eating the same amount or more

How to prevent it: Maintaining a healthy weight can go a long way in preventing diabetes, cats and humans alike. Take note of how much your kitty is eating and make meals smaller if he or she is putting on excess pudge. While it hasn’t been proven that a low-carb diet high in protein can actually prevent feline diabetes, your vet may prescribe such a diet if your cat is already diabetic.

If you notice your kitty having litter box troubles, then perhaps he or she is bothered by lower urinary tract diseases that’s causing an inflammation in the bladder and/or urethra. There could be many causes, including bacterial infection, urinary stones, and even stress.

How to prevent it: Cats who drink little water or overweight are more prone to diseases in the urinary tract, so anything that encourages them to up their liquid intake would help. Is your kitty feeling anxious? Help lower their stress level by making sure they have enough resting and hiding places, and that there are enough space and litter boxes if you have more than one cat at home.

Kitties can be plagued with various skin problems, including parasites, fungal or bacterial infection, and allergies. The easiest way to identify any skin conditions your feline friend may have is their grooming and scratching behavior. If you notice they’re scratching excessively, or if you see any hair loss, then you should check with the vet what could be causing your kitty discomfort.

How to prevent it: Keeping your cats indoors is the most effective way of avoiding fleas, mites, ringworm and other types of parasites and infections. However, these pests can still find their way into your home, so regular prevention, especially against ticks and fleas, is also important. Check with your vet what type of preventive treatments are available and most suited for your kitty.

Dental problems are one of the most common reasons for cats to visit the vet. As with humans, a buildup of plaque can cause gums to swell and become quite painful. If left untreated, it can develop into the more serious periodontal disease that could require removal of infected teeth.

How to prevent it: Just as we brush our teeth at least twice daily, our kitties should also have their teeth cleaned regularly. They may not like it (at first!), but it’s worth developing that habit, saving you from expensive vet bills in the future to treat dental diseases. There are also special chew toys and dental treats that may be more welcomed by your cat as ways to improve dental hygiene.

Kidneys play a vital function in keeping our kitties healthy and it’s a serious issue if they’re not working well. Unfortunately, it’s a common problem for many older cats over 7. It’s often a chronic disease, meaning it is a long-term illness that isn’t easily cured. It could also be a sudden, or acute, illness if your kitty contracted an infection or ate something toxic. Kidney diseases are complicated, not easy to identify, and could be linked to other illnesses.

How to prevent it: For some cats, kidney problems are hereditary. But we can still do our best to minimize the risk. Wet food is preferred over kibble as it ensures your kitty is hydrated. You don’t have to completely eliminate dry food but slowly incorporate more wet food in your cat’s diet. Make sure the litter box is well maintained and water is always available.

While some of the health problems can be easily resolved, others are more harmful and require costly treatments. Check out our Cat Insurance page to see how Pawfect Care can help you protect your kitty’s health.

Here are some common health problems for cats, as well as things you can do to prevent them.

Common health problems for cats and how to prevent them?

Common health problems for cats and how to prevent them

Emigration is on the minds of many Hongkongers lately, but uprooting and saying goodbye is never easy. There’s a lot of research and preparation that needs to be done before moving abroad. For pet parents, figuring out the logistics of transporting furry best friends to is an added challenge. Can pets travel with their humans? What documents do they need? Here’s a quick guide for those of you contemplating emigration with pets in tow.

Q: Will my pet have to be quarantined upon arrival?
A: It depends. For dogs, the mandatory quarantine period for a few popular destinations are:

Q: What do I need to prepare?
A: You will most likely need: 

An animal health certificate and a special permit – These can be applied through the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department. 

Microchip – Most countries require pets to have microchips, but specifics may vary. You should be able to find more information on the relevant government department websites. 

Vaccinations – Again, requirements differ country to country. Some destinations may require pets to have vaccinations 6 months before arrival, so it’s good to plan ahead. 

Plane ticket – Airlines may have certain breed restrictions.

Q: How long does the whole application process take?
A: For Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan, the process from application to departure could take between 7 to 9 months. Take Taiwan as an example: A dog is required to get a rabies shot and blood test at least 180 days before entering Taiwan. Upon arrival, the pup will be quarantined for 7 days. 

Q: How much would it all cost?
A: According to quotations from pet relocation services, all the expenses added up may end up around HKD 10,000 to HKD 50,000. 

Q: How would my pet fly?
A: There are two main ways your furry one can travel. The first is the most preferred by pet parents, which is for your pet to board the same flight as you as checked baggage. The second is for pets to travel as cargo. That means they’ll be flown on a different plane than you. Both are fine and safe options.

Q: Are there any risks I should consider before moving my pet?
A: Most airlines today are much pet-friendlier than before and they understand the importance of transporting a furry friend safely and comfortably. The biggest challenge, for both pets and their owners, is to leave behind a familiar place to start a new life elsewhere. To minimize stress and ensure the whole family can successfully arrival at the destination, it’s a good idea to start researching and preparing as soon as you’ve decided to move.

Most pet parents can’t imagine leaving their pets behind, no matter how long or difficult the relocation process. For those of us and our pets who are not emigrating, have you thought about buying a pet insurance policy for your furry companions? We’ve done the research already and compared several pet insurance options in Hong Kong, including OneDegree’s Pawfect Care. Read it here.

If you’re interested, feel free to check out our website for more details or a free quote.

There’s a lot of research and preparation that needs to be done before moving abroad. For pet parents, figuring out the logistics of transporting furry best friends to is an added challenge.

Moving abroad? A guide to emigrating with pets

Plants can do wonders for your home’s décor, adding splashes of color and life. Engaging in some green therapy can also help us stay calm during these stressful pandemic times. But before you run down to the flower market or place an order online for a pot of peace lilies – Do you know which plants are harmful for our pets? What’s good for us may not necessarily be good for our furry friends!

In fact, hundreds of common house and garden plants can be poisonous to varying degrees for cats and dogs. Keep your furry ones healthy by knowing which plants are safe to have around the house and which are not.  One thing to note – many plants are known by multiple names. To avoid confusion, look up a plant using its scientific name.

Here are some of the most common houseplants that are toxic for pets:

These blooms look gorgeous in a vase, but many lily varieties are toxic for pets, especially for cats. The Asian lily (Lilium asiatica), Easter lily (Lilium longiflorum), and Day lilies (Hemerocallis spp.) are among the most dangerous. The entire plant is poisonous, so even ingesting some pollen or drinking water from the vase can make your pet very ill. It can cause fatal kidney failure in cats in less than 3 days if left untreated. For dogs, lilies are less harmful.  However, some species can still cause serious health problems, such as Lily-of-the-valley (Convallaria majalis). Dogs coming into contact with this lily can develop irregular heartbeat, drop in blood pressure, and possibly fall into a coma. 

This auspicious flower is a common sight in homes, especially around Chinese New Year. However, daffodils are toxic to both cats and dog. Eating part of the plant, especially the bulb, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat.

Aloe is a household favorite. This succulent to take care of and the gel inside the leaves are useful to treat burns, or simply as a natural moisturizer! The gel is not harmful for pets, but the outer layers contain toxins including saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal upset in cats and dogs if ingested.

The Dieffenbachia is one of the best indoor plants as it can thrive without much sunlight. Its large green leaves look harmless enough, right? Maybe not for your pet. Chewing on this plant won’t have deadly consequences, but it will cause some very uncomfortable symptoms in your furry friend, including a burning sensation in the mouth, vomiting, and even difficulty in swallowing.

Hanging plants add character to a home and the Pothos, also called Devil’s Ivy, is one of the most popular choices. It poses similar risks to pets as the Dumb Cane, as they’re both part of the Araceae family. If you can hang your plant somewhere out of your furry one’s reach, then it could be safe to have it indoors. Keep in mind though that cats in particular are tenacious creatures. They can often get up to places you wouldn’t imagine possible!

This unusual looking plant is catching the eyes of many plant enthusiasts and it can add a tropical touch to your home instantly. If you have furry friends at home though, it’s best to keep the sago palm away. The whole plant is harmful for cats and dogs. The seeds are particularly toxic – eating just a few can be deadly. Signs of poisoning include vomiting, bloody stools, bruising, and liver failure.

7. Elephant’s Ears (Caladium hortulanum)


The Caladium is a beautiful houseplant with green and pink heart-shaped leaves. It goes by many names, including Malanga and Mother-in-law plant. It is also another member of the Araceae family, and unfortunately harmful for pets.  

The ASPCA has a comprehensive database of plants that are toxic and non-toxic for cats and dogs. Each plant description includes its common names, scientific name, and toxicity.

With furry buddies in the house, it’s best to avoid the more dangerous plants completely. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the benefits of having greenery in your home. There are ways to keep curious paws away from houseplants and also many foliage that are pet safe.

If you suspect your pet has taken a nibble of a toxic plant, contact your vet straight away. Pawfect Care reimburses up to 90% of medical expenses when your furry one gets into an unexpected accident, and all registered vets in Hong Kong are covered.

Before you run down to the flower market or place an order online for a pot of peace lilies – Do you know which plants are harmful for our pets?

Decorating your home with plants? Make sure they’re safe for your pets

Movies and cartoons often portray hostile relationships between cats and dogs, but in reality, cat-dog fights are not that common. Rather, brawls between cats or between dogs happen much more frequently. In particular, male pups from 6 months to 3 years old are more prone to fights. How can you put a stop to a fight, or better yet, prevent them from happening altogether? 

Q: What types of fighting are there?
A: You can categorize fighting amongst dogs into 2 types: At home, and outside.

Q: Why might dogs in the same household fight?
A: Fights are most likely to break out in a home with more than one dog of the same sex. The cause is usually possessiveness over food, toys, or other resources.

Q: Why might dogs fight with other dogs outside?

When you’re going for walks, the change of environment or being somewhere new can over-excite your furry friend, which could lead to feelings of aggression.

Change in environment could also cause your pup to feel anxious, similarly leading to aggressive behavior. 

If your dog mistakenly believes another person or animal is threatening you, they may attack to protect you. 

If nothing else, remember this: Never try to break up a brawl by yelling or pulling on your pup’s leash! By doing so, your dog may become even more agitated.

Here are a few effective methods to stop aggressive behavior:  

Quickly grab your dog by their behind or back legs and pull them away (Never grab their head or neck – you’ll get bitten).

Push against your dog’s side with one of your legs and guide them away. You’re not kicking them, but rather using your body weight and leg to move them. 

Spray the warring pups with water or separate them using a large object. 

Divert their attention. A dog’s attention span is notoriously short, so catch their attention with a snack or a sound so they’ll forget all about their rival.

Q: How can you prevent a fight?
A: Learn to read your doggo’s body language

Your dog’s behind moves along with a wagging tail = Happy 

A tail raised high and slowly wagging = Nervous 

2. For breeds with short tails, such as Corgis or Rottweilers, you may have to pick up signals from body parts other than the tail: Hair standing up on back, ears pressed flat against the head, stiffening of the body are all signs of an agitated canine that is ready to fight. 

Friction can also happen between dogs with a big age gap. A 4-month-old puppy is boisterous and playful, and you can easily imagine an older dog losing patience with the young one’s excessive energy. 

Q: Should your dog see an animal behavior expert? 

A: It’s normal for occasional fights to break out, and pet parents can help resolve the disagreement at hand through keen observation and effective management. For example, if you notice that your doggo gets agitated every time they are in a particular place, avoid taking them there. However, if you don’t feel like you are making any progress with correcting your dog’s aggression, then the best way may be to consult an expert.

Dog fights can be ferocious and scary, but having other canine friends to play with at home or at the park is important to a doggo’s emotional health. In the process of learning how to get along with other dogs, your pup could get injured. Be prepared for the inevitable accidents with pet insurance. 

Pawfect Care pet insurance accepts all dog breeds and reimburses up to 90% of vet bills. It offer comprehensive coverage for when your beloved pets need medical attention, both injuries and illnesses. For more details, check out here!

In particular, male pups from 6 months to 3 years old are more prone to fights. How can you put a stop to a fight, or better yet, prevent them from happening altogether?

How to stop dogs from fighting

Bring out the mooncakes and hang up the lanterns, because it’s that time of the year again! Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as moon festival, is many people’s favorite holiday and this year it lands on a four-day long weekend. Celebrate with your furry friends by choosing a pet-friendly spot for your moon-gaze outing. There are over 40 public pet parks across the city, and we’ve picked out 9 that offers great views so you and your four-legged companion can enjoy the festivities together. 

Victoria Peak Garden, Central and Western District

A beautiful, tucked-away park with rolling lawns, the Victoria Peak Garden is a popular spot for day-trippers, hikers, as well as for couples taking wedding photos. As it is located near the top of Hong Kong Island’s highest peak, you’re bound to get good views on a clear night. However, the garden is not the easiest to get to and may be more suitable for pet parents planning to drive there.

Pet facilities: Grass area, dog latrine
Opening hours: 24 hours daily
Address: Across from 40 Mount Austin Road (map)

Central and Western District Promenade - Sheung Wan Section 

Spanning the waterfront from Central to the Western end of Hong Kong Island, the promenade offers spectacular harbor views that never gets old. The Sheung Wan section is best for furry friends as there are pet facilities (unlike the Central section) and generally not as crowded. It is situated next to the Hong Kong and Macau Ferry Terminal and you’ll be right by the water with no buildings obstructing your moon-gazing.

Pet facilities: Grass area, dog waste collection bin, dog latrine
Opening hours: 24 hours daily
Address: Next to the Hong Kong and Macau Ferry Terminal (map) 

North Point Promenade Dog Park, Eastern District 

Small and with fewer facilities, the dog park on the North Point Promenade is not as loved by pet parents as some of the other options. The pros: great location, easy to get to, and views of the harbor. If you live in the area, or passing by, it’s a nice little spot to take your doggo.

Pet facilities: Dog waste collection bin
Opening hours: 24 hours daily
Address: Next to Harbour North shopping mall Phase 3, on Tin Chiu Street (map)

A quick 10-minute walk from Kowloon City will bring you to the Sung Wong Toi Playground, a peaceful spot amid the bustling, crowded district. Although the dog park is a bit small, its proximity to the harbor means you’ll get good views of the night sky. Prepare a treat for your furry one, stop by one of Kowloon City’s many eateries to pick up something for yourself, and settle in at the park for a special moon festival picnic.

Pet facilities: dog waste collection bin, handwash area, drinking fountain
Opening hours: 24 hours daily
Address: Olympic Avenue, Kowloon City (map)

Located next to the bus terminal and near several parking lots, the Ferry Pier Square pet park is easy to get to whether you’re driving or taking public transit. One thing to note – the park is surrounded by busy roads with lots of buses passing by, so make sure to keep a firm hold on your pet when crossing the streets to reach the park.

Pet facilities: drinking fountain for dogs, dog latrine, dog playground equipment
Opening hours: 24 hours daily
Address: Next to the pier on Wai Yip Street, Kwun Tong (map) 

Sham Shui Po Hing Wah Street West Playground

The pet park, next to the soccer pitch, is smaller compared to others but it’s well-equipped. The play area separates big dogs and little dogs, so our furry ones can tumble and wrestle all they want with friends similar to their size. The washing facilities are especially appreciated by pet parents so they can clean up those paws before heading home.

Pet facilities: dog waste collection bin, handwash area, play area
Opening hour: 7am – 11pm daily
Address: 5 Hing Wah Street West, Sham Shui Po (map) 

The Tai Po Waterfront Park is a gem in the New Territories, but unfortunately it doesn’t allow pets. Luckily, Tai Po pet parents can take their furry friends to the nearby Kwong Fuk Park. A comfortably sized space, Kwong Fuk Park offers decent views and is a good option for your Mid-Autumn Festival excursion.

Pet facilities: dog latrine, dog waste collection bin, washing area
Opening hours: 24 hours daily
Address: Kwong Chun Street, Tai Po (map)

Tuen Mun has two pet parks: The Lam Tei Pet Garden has sand pits, but the Hoi Wong Road Garden’s riverside location means it has better and more expansive views. The latter is quite popular among pet parents living in the area and also attracts many day-trippers with their furry friends.

Pet facilities: Grass area, pet playground equipment, dog waste collection bin, dog latrine
Opening hours: 24 hours daily
Address: Next to the Tuen Mun Swimming Pool on Hoi Wong Road (map) 

The Wan Po Road Pet Garden is big with open view of its kind in the district. Located near the waterfront promenade, it is spacious and offers views of Junk Bay in the distance. The garden has 5 grass areas for your doggo to play to their heart’s content and it even has shower facilities for pets! Its location, however, is a bit remote and hard to get to unless you have a car.

Pet facilities: Pet play area, dog latrine, dog waste collection, pet shower area, grass area
Opening hours: 7am – 10:30pm daily
Address: Wan Po Road, Tseung Kwan O (map) 

There are over 40 public pet parks across the city, and we’ve picked out 9 that offers great views so you and your four-legged companion can enjoy the festivities together.

Pets exploring Hong Kong: Where to go for Mid-Autumn Festival

You are what you eat – What we feed our bodies is directly linked to our health and quality of life, and the same can be said for our furry friends. Pet food comes in many forms, including dry kibble, canned food, fresh food, and raw food. Among these options, serving freshly prepared meals to doggos and kitties is becoming increasingly more popular.   

Fresh pet food generally refers to meals cooked with real ingredients, which can include meat, vegetables, fruit, and grains. They tend to be more varied, higher in water content, and free of artificial additives.  So, should you start preparing meals for your furry one in the kitchen? Let’s look some of the benefits of  homemade pet food and what factors you should consider before incorporating it in your pet’s diet.

Control over ingredients and portion size

With home-prepared meals, pet parents have full control over the process and the peace of mind that your furry friend is not consuming any artificial preservatives.  Other benefits include being able to tailor meals to your pet’s nutritional needs, especially if they require special diets for allergies or other medical conditions. Pet food off the shelf can get quite repetitive and many kinds have higher carbohydrate content. Kibble, in particular, should be portion-controlled as eating too much of it can lead to unwanted weight gain. 

Fresh meals made from whole foods are arguably more nutritious for pets, as they are less processed and easier to digest. Homemade food also have more moisture, which is a plus for furry friends that don’t love drinking water. 

As pet parents, it is immensely satisfying to see our pets enjoy meals we make from scratch and knowing that they are consuming nutritious food without any dubious add-ins.  Your furry friend will also come to associate their deliciously fresh meals with the extra time you’re spending in the kitchen.

Things you should consider about a fresh food diet

There are many benefits to home-cooked pet food, but before you commit to a fresh food diet for your beloved furball, consider these following points: 

Dishing up kibble or canned food requires but a moment of your time, while cooking daily meals for your pet is more time consuming. If you choose to give your pet a fresh food diet, be prepared to set aside the time to buy ingredients and cook.

Understand your pet’s nutritional needs 

Is fresh always better? It depends. While commercially produced pet food can look uninspiring and processed, they are also made to meet the basic dietary requirements for furry friends and include the right balance of essential nutrients. Before looking up pet food recipes, it’s very important to first understand your dog or cat’s nutritional needs. Check with your vet to make sure you’re preparing well-balanced and nutritious meals.

The shelf life of fresh foods is of course much shorter than commercial pet food. If you choose to meal prep in bulk (for example, cook enough to last a week), be extra careful not to accidentally serve spoiled food to your pet.  

Be prepared that it may take some time for your furry one to adjust to fresh food. Most kibble or canned food will have added flavoring to make them more appealing. For your pet, homemade meals may taste bland in comparison. Ease them into it by mixing in some of their usual pet food. This will help them get used to the taste of fresh food, as well as prevent any stomach upset resulting from a sudden switch in diet. 

You can choose to shift completely to a fresh food diet or serve a homemade meal occasionally as a special treat. So, is fresh food right for your pet? They can’t tell you, but you can get some clues by observing their reaction to homemade meals, behavior, stools, and any weight change. It can be a lengthy process to find the right recipes, but if it can make your furry friend healthy and happy, then it is all worth it!

Pet food comes in many forms, including dry kibble, canned food, fresh food, and raw food. Among these options, serving freshly prepared meals to doggos and kitties is becoming increasingly more popular.

Cooking for your pet: Benefits of fresh food diet & what you should know

Being out in nature is good for the heart and soul, and we’re lucky to be surrounded by abundant trails and hills in Hong Kong. Getting outside is also great exercise for your pup! But before you hit the trails with your dog – is your furry buddy ready? The trails belong to everyone, so it’s important for pet parents to keep the following points in mind:

There are 3 main types of trails in Hong Kong: Family-friendly trails, nature trails, and country trails. If your dog is new to hiking, consider starting with some family-friendly trails. They range from 1km to 3.5km long, and typically nice and gentle walks that can be completed in 2 hours or less.

The sun, the wind, the smells! It’s a given that your dog will be excited being out on the trails, but if a pup hasn’t had enough training, the following may happen: 

If you take the leash off, they may run off-trail 

They may jump into bushes out of curiosity 

They may sniff at or mistakenly ingest unknown objects

All the above scenarios could cause harm to your pet, and possibly to other hikers or animals. Therefore, it’s critical to teach your pup to listen to your commands before taking them on hikes. 

You can start by taking their leash off next time you go to the park, and call their name. Encourage them to come to you with treats or other rewards. The goal is for your doggo to obey and come back to your side when they hear your call. Before you try this, observe and see whether your pet can be safely off-leash. It’s different for every dog, so it’s really up to the pet parent to decide when their furry one is ready.

Aside from regular behavior training for your pet, pet owners should take note of the following:

<table style="border-collapse:collapse;border-spacing:0" class="tg"><tbody><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal" colspan="2">Before hiking </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Choose a suitable trail </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Unless your doggo is a frequent hiker, don’t choose a trail that is too long or challenging. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:middle;word-break:normal" rowspan="3">Consider your dog’s breed </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Long hikes are not as suitable for huskies, Labradors, golden retrievers and other breeds that tend to have more joint problems. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Longhaired breeds tend to overheat more easily, so pay attention to the weather and choose trails with lots of shade. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Short-nosed breeds such as pugs, shih tzus, and Pekingese can get heat strokes easily. Short walks are fine but it’s generally not recommended for these breeds to go hiking. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:middle;word-break:normal" rowspan="2">Recent health condition </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">If your pup has been sick lately, it’s best to postpone any hiking plans. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Puppies or senior pets tend to have weaker immune systems and have less endurance, so take that into consideration. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Any joint problems? </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">f your dog has shown signs of joint pain or discomfort, it’s best to avoid steep hills and trails with a lot of stairs. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal" colspan="2">While hiking </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Be cautious about wild plants and poisoned baits </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Keep tabs on your dog at all times. If you spot them chewing on something you’re not sure of, stop them immediately. Take a sample of the plant or item your pet was eating in case you need to show it to your vet later. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Bring food and water </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">You may not need it, but always prepare more than you think you need. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal"> Leash, muzzle, and dog tag </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">The first two items are to protect your pup and others, while the tag with your info on it is to help them find their way home if they get lost. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">First aid kit </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">The trails in Hong Kong are generally safe, but injuries can still happen. There have been incidents of dogs and cats snared by illegal animal traps. Beware of these dangers and it never hurts to be extra-prepared! </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Keep calm when there are other animals around </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Aside from your doggo, there may be other pets on the trail, and of course the animals that call nature home. If you spot another furry friend, remember to stay calm and keep a firm grip on the leash. Panic or overexcitement from you could unnerve your dog and result in accidents. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal" colspan="2">Post hiking </td></tr><tr><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Wash up! </td><td style="border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;word-break:normal">Protect your pet from ticks, fleas, and bacteria by giving them a thorough cleaning as soon as you get home. </td></tr></tbody></table>

The weather has finally cooled down, which means hiking season has begun! If you think your furry buddy would enjoy going on hikes, we’ve picked out a few trails for you to get started. Read about them here: Kid- and pet-friendly hikes in Hong Kong

Getting outside is also great exercise for your pup! But before you hit the trails with your dog – is your furry buddy ready? The trails belong to everyone, so it’s important for pet parents to keep the following points in mind