Paws and passion

Adoption activists

While some Gen Zers use their creativity to raise awareness about stray cat problems, others focus on more hands-on adoption efforts, which are equally important but also labor intensive.

Tang Tianle, a 23-year-old from Shandong province and now living in Beijing, has participated in more than 20 such charity events as a volunteer. Her involvement began on a cold winter day two years ago when she rescued a small orange cat in front of her apartment building.

"The little kitty gives me so much comfort and companionship. Grateful for this bond, I've been keeping an eye on stray cats in my community ever since," Tang said. "So far, I've saved eight of them-three of which I've kept, three found new families, and two are still waiting for adoption."

Later, when she learned about face-to-face adoption activities that directly connect rescuers and potential adopters, she felt compelled to join and help.

Tang participated in events organized by Beijing Adoption Day, an animal welfare charity. Usually twice a month, they arrange for rescuers to bring their rescued dogs and cats to busy places like shopping malls, squares, and museums, where they showcase these animals, allowing potential adopters to interact with them and apply for adoption.

"Finding suitable adopters for stray animals is not easy. After adopters submit their applications, rescuers will carefully assess the information provided," Tang said. "They evaluate whether the applicants can offer a stable living environment for the animal and are prepared to assume the lifelong responsibility of caring for a dog or cat."

"Face-to-face interactions typically work well because they create opportunities for rescuers and adopters to communicate directly and establish emotional connections between adopters and animals," she added.

According to Tang, these activities usually last four to five hours, during which 50 to 60 volunteers, mostly young women under 30, take care of about 40 cats and 20 dogs. "We do a lot of heavy lifting, such as installing and moving cages, but we find it very rewarding to contribute our strength," she said.

Meng Fan, 27, from Cangzhou, Hebei province, has been utilizing her professional knowledge and skills in the adoption day activities.

With a background in broadcasting and hosting, and currently working as a program editor, Meng is well-versed in new media.

When she first volunteered in a face-to-face adoption event in June 2021, she engaged with the audience by providing live text broadcasts on Sina Weibo.

In subsequent activities, she expanded her efforts by livestreaming on more social media platforms, introducing information about each rescued animal and answering questions from the viewers.

"I need to keep talking for hours and livestream on almost all the popular social media platforms in China, including Sina Weibo, WeChat, Douyin, and Xiaohongshu, so that we can reach more potential adopters," she said.

Having volunteered for two years, Meng has met many endearing stray animals, witnessed touching stories, and received considerable positive feedback. "I'm always dedicated and pleased," she said. "What we've been doing for these lives is meaningful."