A Warm Winter in Chengdu

Last deep winter, Chengdu endured days of cold rain, with temperatures hovering around freezing and a bone-chilling damp hanging in the air. During a routine patrol of the city's outskirts, volunteers from the Foundation discovered a group of abandoned stray dogs huddled beneath an overpass. They were pressed tightly together, trembling on the cold, wet concrete, their fur soaked through with muddy water and their eyes full of wariness, hunger, and distrust of the world. Several were puppies only a few weeks old, letting out faint whimpers. Moved deeply by the sight, the volunteers decided without hesitation to step in and help.

Knowing the dogs were frightened and defensive, the volunteers did not rush to chase or capture them, but instead drew up a gradual rescue plan. Over the next three weekends, team members took turns visiting the overpass. They built a simple but sturdy windbreak shelter from scrap wood and waterproof sheeting, lined it with clean, warm blankets, and brought warm food and fresh water at set times each day.

At first the traumatized dogs shied away from people, daring to approach the food only after the volunteers had left. But through the team's patient, unhurried companionship day after day, they gradually let down their guard, eventually wagging their tails to greet the volunteers and even nuzzling against their trouser legs.

Among them was a golden retriever with a broken hind leg, its wound already badly infected and festering. Volunteer Li Lin drove the dog to an animal hospital overnight, personally covered the surgery and treatment costs, and visited every day after work to administer medicine, change dressings, and assist with rehabilitation.

Two months later, the dog, affectionately named Tuantuan, had fully recovered. After careful screening and follow-up visits, Tuantuan was adopted by a loving family. Today, with a glossy golden coat and a gentle temperament, he has become a favorite companion of the children in the neighborhood.

Over the course of the winter, the team rescued twenty-seven stray dogs. Nineteen found warm new homes through a rigorous adoption process, while the rest were properly placed, neutered, and vaccinated at partner organizations. The rescue, recorded and shared on social media, also drew the attention and participation of many residents.