Editorial | Tai Po pet rescues put Hong Kong’s compassion on show
Hong Kong’s efforts to save pets at a time of such heartbreak are a sign of the city’s care and compassion
Understandably, saving pets was not a priority when firefighters were battling the flames, but some were recovered during efforts to extinguish the fire. Photos of a firefighter who rescued nine cats and a dog went viral. Many more pets were found in the following days. The police Disaster Victim Identification Unit conducted a search for them. Sadly, at least 70 animals were killed.
Pets have become increasingly popular among Hong Kong people. Among those rescued were parrots, turtles and fish. A cat called “Little Black” survived nine days on its own. There have been some uplifting stories amid all the sadness.
The fire prompted a strong response from the community, with volunteers providing support for victims. This effort extended to helping to find, care for and reunite missing pets with their owners. Animal welfare groups worked tirelessly at the scene.
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is caring for animals in need of medical attention or whose homeless owners are not yet able to take them back. Those whose owners cannot be found will be adopted.