Pup precautions: The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department reminds dog owners their pets must be licensed, microchipped and vaccinated against rabies.

Although Hong Kong has been rabies-free for 20 years people should stay vigilant against the disease, the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department says.

The department today said maintenance of the city's rabies-free status hinges upon the effective rabies regulatory regime and public co-operation.

A comprehensive anti-rabies programme has been implemented with vaccinations the key measure. Under the Rabies Ordinance all dogs aged over five months must be vaccinated against rabies, licensed and microchipped. About 150,000 dogs are currently vaccinated and licensed.

To ensure an adequate level of protection against rabies, dogs must be re-vaccinated every three years when the dog licence is renewed. Vaccination is available from private veterinary surgeons or the department's animal management centres.