More than 100 dogs and cats put in so-called blind boxes were rescued in Shanghai on Monday, sparking a new round of criticism and heated discussion among Chinese netizens, just months after similar cases were reported in the country.
The animals were found in front of a residential community in Jiading district on Monday afternoon. The place had a foul smell as some of the animals had already died by the time they were found, according to local media reports.
A video widely shared online showed veterinarians and volunteers helping check the animals to ensure their safety. Police were also present to keep order and help those who wanted to adopt some of the remaining animals. A few of the animals were puppies and kittens, and their rescue was crucial since they couldn't survive longer as it was raining at the site.
As of 1:30 am on Tuesday, a total of 71 cats and 36 dogs had been adopted by volunteers, according to media reports.
Based on postal regulations, live animals may not be shipped via postal channels. Before engaging in the business of transporting animals and animal products by rail, road, water, or air, the consignors must provide quarantine certificates. Carriers may not accept the shipments if the consignors don't have quarantine certificates, according to the revised Animal Epidemic Prevention Law that took effect on May 1.
The hashtag "more than 100 pets in 'blind boxes' were abandoned" on Chinese Twitter-like Sina Weibo had 52 million reads as of press time. Many netizens have called for establishing new laws to protect pets.