A devastating fire recently tore through Hong Kong’s Wang Fuk Court complex, burning for over 40 hours and claiming many lives in one of the city’s deadliest blazes in decades. Amidst the widespread heartbreak and destruction, a powerful story of hope and the unbreakable bond between humans and their animal companions emerged.
Jacky Lee, an airline engineer, rushed back to her home, her heart pounding with fear for Jason, her 15-year-old grey poodle still inside. As the inferno consumed seven high-rises, the thought of losing Jason was unbearable. She joined anxious crowds at a makeshift shelter, but as the hours stretched, news on pet rescues seemed bleak. A district councillor even told her the search for animals had ended.
Then, a flicker of hope. A firefighter called late that night, asking about a dog in her unit. A day after the fire began, Jason reappeared, safe in the arms of a volunteer, rescued from the still-burning towers. “He was still shaking when I saw him from afar, then I called his name, he saw me and stopped. Then he smiled,” Jacky recounted, overwhelmed with joy. Firefighters later shared that little notes Jacky had left with Jason’s name guided them to the frightened poodle.
Hong Kong’s social media was flooded with worried pet lovers throughout the ordeal, reflecting the city’s deep affection for its animals. Organizations like the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) worked tirelessly, rescuing 209 animals – including dogs, cats, fish, hamsters, and turtles – though sadly 63 didn’t survive. This tragic event highlighted the urgent need for pet-friendly temporary housing for displaced residents. Jason, though initially timid, quickly bounced back to his fluffy self, a testament to resilience and the power of love. “They also rescued my soul,” Jacky later wrote, speaking for countless pet owners.
Source: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/world/asia/hong-kong-fire-survivor-pet
