Weather and seasons in Hong Kong
Hong Kong has hot, humid summers with heavy rain and typhoons, and mild, dry winters. From May to October, pavements and trails get very hot and humid, and typhoon or rainstorm warnings can stop walks altogether.
Planning around the seasons
In summer, walk early or late, choose shady trails and carry water; avoid hot pavements and long hikes in the midday heat.
When typhoon or black rainstorm warnings are issued, stay indoors and agree with your sitter what happens to walks and visits.
Homes, buildings and access
Many buildingsโ deeds of mutual covenant (DMC) or management rules restrict pets, and flats are small. Tell your provider about building management, lifts, security and where keys are kept.
Local rules worth knowing
In Hong Kong dogs over five months old must be licensed, microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. Dogs must be on a lead in public places, and owners must clean up after them. Many parks only allow pets in designated areas.
Getting around Hong Kong with a pet
Pets are generally not allowed on the MTR or most buses (service animals excepted), and taxis may decline animals. A pet taxi is the practical way to reach the vet, a groomer or the airport.
Pet care in Hong Kong โ FAQ
Does OnlyPaw work in Hong Kong?
Yes. OnlyPaw is available worldwide, including Hong Kong. Because it's a marketplace, the providers you can book depend on who has been approved near your address โ the app shows who's available before you pay.
How much does pet care cost in Hong Kong?
Providers in Hong Kong set their own prices, so you see each provider's rate in the app before you book. At checkout OnlyPaw adds a service fee of 10% of the service price, with a minimum of USD 2 and a maximum of USD 20 (or the equivalent in your local currency), shown before you pay. Your payment is held and only released to the provider after the service is completed.
Can I take my dog on the MTR?
Pets are generally not allowed on the MTR or most buses, service animals excepted. For vet, groomer or airport trips, book a pet taxi in the OnlyPaw app.
Does my dog need a licence in Hong Kong?
Yes. Dogs over five months old must be licensed, microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. Keep the documents handy for providers.
How are providers vetted?
Every provider submits a government ID and a selfie, passes a knowledge test with a 70% pass mark and uploads service-specific documents โ home photos for sitting and boarding, driving licence and vehicle registration for pet taxi, certificates for grooming and training โ before the OnlyPaw team approves them.
What happens in an emergency?
Every active booking has an SOS button in the app. It alerts the other party and the OnlyPaw team straight away. If your pet needs urgent medical care, contact a vet or emergency clinic first.
