For 24 years, Animals Asia’s Dr Dog programme has been helping some of Hong Kong’s most vulnerable communities. The disabled, the sick and the elderly have all benefited from visits from incredible therapy animals, but behind every tail-wagging dog is a dedicated volunteer.

Here are just two of the hundreds of people who make the programme possible.

Helen Pong

“I was lucky when I adopted my beloved furry ‘kid’ Cha Cha as he was already a qualified Dr Dog. I did a little research online and found out more about the duties that a Dr Dog needs to perform. Knowing Cha Cha’s friendly character – I knew he was just perfect for the job.

“I am always happy to be able to give others a helping hand. Doing volunteer work has always been in the back of my mind, filed away for ‘one of those days’. With the adoption of my beloved Cha Cha, I was suddenly able to take action and put myself to work.

“Just to see the smile from those we visit is so rewarding – it makes my day. The visits make me and Cha Cha feel needed – which is always a good feeling.

“I’ve experienced so much positive change since I came to Hong Kong nearly 20 years ago. People in Hong Kong are becoming increasingly aware that dogs and cats are ‘friends not food’ – and that dogs are wonderful companions for us humans.”

Pinky Fok

Q: Why do you give your time to the Dr Dog programme?

“The Dr Dog programme brings joy to the patients and educates others about the love of animals and also to respect all life. I appreciate all these things.

“For the dogs, every visit gives them a sense of mission and satisfaction; the guardians get to enjoy the love of animals, and feel happy while patients receive joy, increased knowledge about animals and also help during serious illness. Some patients suffer from dementia, autism or have learning disabilities – Dr Dog can help them all.”

Q: Do you feel attitudes to animals, particularly dogs, are changing in Hong Kong and China?

“I think the Dr Dog programme is changing perceptions and attitudes in both China and Hong Kong. Some still sadly hold the belief that dog is a delicacy. However, in recent years, through programmes like Dr Dog and continuous public education, perceptions are changing. I hope through our programmes and with further educational campaigns, we can end cruelty to animals and embrace respect for life.”

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