Shenzhen microchips 30,000 dogs for free to protect canines
By Zhao Yunfei, Liang Qipeng
02:24

When Jenny Coulson and Sachin Kavar opened a dog shelter in China's southern metropolis Shenzhen, they didn't expect the number would reach 200. The dogs came from all around the country, some were abandoned street dogs, others were saved from the butcher.

But whatever they've gone through, Coulson said she wanted to help them find a home for good.

"Our ultimate aim is to educate people on responsible pet ownership," Coulson said.

The shelter's founders said they hope no dog will suffer the trauma of living locked up in a cage. Micro-chipping, a new campaign launched by Shenzhen official, made one step further to make sure that doesn't happen.

"Micro-chipping dogs is definitely a good idea. It helps you track down the owners," Kavar said.

Jenny Coulson interacting with her dogs at shelter. /Liang Qipeng, CGTN

Jenny Coulson interacting with her dogs at shelter. /Liang Qipeng, CGTN

Shenzhen began micro-chipping all of its pet dogs for free to help protect the animals from irresponsible owners. Each chip had a unique 15-digit code linked to their owners' name and contact details.

Pets without microchips will be considered "unlicensed" by October, and their owners may face penalties, the official said.

"We're calling for dog owners' to have a sense of responsibility. Once the dog has a chip, it's connected to its owner. That means the owner should take good care of the dog," said Huang Zhoufen, an official from Shenzhen Urban Management.

Li Rongzhi registering his contact information after his pet dog got micro-chipped. /Liang Qipeng, CGTN

Li Rongzhi registering his contact information after his pet dog got micro-chipped. /Liang Qipeng, CGTN

Li Rongzhi is among the first group of owners who've brought their dogs to clinics for injection, saying his border collie had been an active member of the family.

"When I quarrel with my girlfriend, Buddy will stand to her side. If we pretend to fight, she interrupts us," Li said.

The chip is like an official tie to my dog, making us inseparable, Li said.

(Chang Yuanyang and Li Jun also contributed to the story.)