We all love the energy of Bai Nian (house visiting)—the laughter, the Mahjong tiles clacking, and the endless trays of food. But for our four-legged family members, a packed Hong Kong apartment during CNY can be overwhelming.

Between the constant doorbell ringing and the tempting smell of braised meats, it's a high-stress environment. I recently spoke with a client in Taikoo Shing whose cat spent three days hiding under a sofa after a particularly loud family gathering. It doesn't have to be that way.

With a little prep, you can host a prosperous gathering while keeping your fur-baby safe and calm.

The "Bai Nian" Briefing (Copy-Paste WhatsApp Script)

In Hong Kong culture, offering food is a love language. Your relatives mean well when they try to slip your Corgi a piece of Char Siu, but they might not know about pancreatitis or onion toxicity.

Send this message to your family group chat the morning of the gathering:

"Gong Hei Fat Choy! We can't wait to see everyone. Just a quick request for [Pet's Name]:

1. Please don't feed him any snacks or human food (he has a sensitive tummy).
2. Please be careful with the front door—he's quick!
3. If he walks away or hides, please let him have some quiet time.
4. Please keep handbags and meds off the floor.
Thank you for helping keep him safe!"

Setting this boundary early saves you from having to be the "bad guy" when guests arrive.

Prep Your Flat: The 10-Minute Setup

Space is a luxury in Hong Kong, but you need to carve out a "bunker" for your pet. This isn't a punishment; it's a VIP lounge.

Create a Retreat Space:
Choose a quiet room (like the master bedroom or the helper's room) and set it up with their bed, fresh water, and a litter box for cats.

The Distraction Technique:
This is the perfect time to utilize food as a pacifier. About 15 minutes before guests arrive, settle your dog in their retreat space with a high-value reward. A Lickimat spread with a portion of Furry Green's Chicken & Pumpkin is ideal here—the act of licking releases calming endorphins, and the fresh, palatable scent keeps them focused on the food rather than the noise outside.

Secure the Trash:
With guests comes trash—shrimp shells, candy wrappers, and tissues. Ensure your kitchen bin has a heavy lid or is locked away under the sink.

The Food Hazard Zone: Specific HK Risks

Table scraps are the biggest "accident waiting to happen" during CNY. Veterinary clinics in Hong Kong see a spike in gastrointestinal issues during the holiday, often due to fatty foods.

While you might know not to give cooked bones, watch out for these specific local hazards:

• Melon Seeds: Choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockages in small breeds.
• Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go): Often contains onions, garlic, and cured meats—all toxic or unhealthy.
• Poon Choi: The sauce is incredibly rich and salty, which can trigger pancreatitis.
• Xylitol: Found in sugar-free candies and some peanut butters.

Hosting Tip: Place a clearly labeled "Bones & Scraps" container on the dining table or coffee table. This gives guests a place to put waste so they aren't tempted to leave plates on low surfaces where a dog can reach.

Learn more about: toxic plant hazards in CNY

Comparison: The Treat Trade-Off

If guests really want to bond with your pet, give them a safe alternative.

Learn more about Chinese New Year Food Safety for Pets

Door Safety: The "Shoe Swap" Gap

In Hong Kong, the entryway is a chaotic zone. People are taking off shoes, finding slippers, and saying hello all at once. The door often stays open for 2-3 minutes at a time.

The Strategy:

1. The Airlock: If you have a baby gate, keep it closed so the entryway is separated from the living room.
2. The Greeter: Assign one family member to hold the pet (or keep them on a leash) while the door is open.
3. Don't Trust "She Won't Run": Even the calmest dog can bolt if startled by a loud "Gung Hei Fat Choy!" or the sound of firecrackers on the TV.

Learn more about: CNY pet-safe cleaning guide

Managing Guest Interactions

Not everyone is "pet savvy." You might have an auntie who wants to hug your dog tightly, or a cousin's toddler who chases the cat.

The Consent Test:
Tell guests to ignore the pet at first. Let the pet approach them. If the pet turns away, that is a polite "no thank you."

The "Plan B":
If you notice your dog panting heavily, yawning excessively, or tucking their tail, they are done. Don't force them to stay out for photos. Put them back in their retreat space with a chew toy. It's better to have a separated, calm pet than a stressed, reactive one.

As we head into the Year of the Snake, a little preparation ensures the celebration stays joyful for everyone—two-legged and four-legged alike.