While Hong Kong reels from this month's devastating Wang Fuk Court fire that claimed 160 lives, a quieter rescue mission unfolded for the city's four-legged survivors. Animal welfare groups report over 600 pets were caught in the blaze – from parakeets in cages to goldfish in plastic bowls 🐠.
"They're family," said volunteer rescuer Li Mei-yee, cradling a smoke-stained tabby cat. "We've pulled hamsters from closets, dogs from balconies, even a python from a bathroom 🐍. Every life counts."
Local veterinarians are working overtime as survivors return to charred apartments, with many animals suffering smoke inhalation. The SPCA has set up emergency shelters across Kowloon, while social media trends like #PawsofHopeHK help reunite pets with owners 📱💖.
As night falls on the blackened high-rise, one golden retriever's joyful reunion with its wheelchair-bound owner reminds the city: even in darkness, love finds a way 🌟.
