Hey pc,
the import procedure is relatively painless, and all the requirements are set in detail on the gov't site. you just have to make sure you have met all the requirements, filled in ALL the forms, applied for and received ALL permits etc... if anything is missing, they will quarantine your pet until it is sorted out, or worst case - send it back at your cost 
i do honestly believe for peace of mind it is easier/better to get a pet export company to look after it all for you, as it is routine for them, and they know the current procedures (which can vary frequently). the companies do charge up to 50% more than it would cost for you to do it yourself, but in the end it is very worth it, as they do everything from pick up, permits, customs clearance, drop off etc.
do a search in the forums to check out previous threads on this. you can also find some info on your salary question if you search for it too - this has been covered a fair bit and there is a good deal of advice and opinions there.
you said you read the gov't site, but here's a link just in case 
http://www.afcd.gov.hk/english/quara..._ipab_idc.html
Hope this helps,
DDF
PS i'm in no way affiliated with pet transport companies, but after having my pets brought over from Oz and chatting with those who do it for a living, i'm glad i got them to do it - hang the extra cost!