Chinese zoo's 'Panda dogs' go viral amid controversy

Chinese zoo’s ‘Panda dogs’ go viral amid controversy

A zoo in Guangdong, China, has stirred viral controversy by admitting its ‘Panda Dogs’ are just painted Chow Chow dogs.

'Panda dogs' in a zoo in Guangdong, China. Image: Instagram via @modernnotoriety

In a bizarre twist that has gone viral, a zoo in Guangdong, China, admitted that its star attractions, dubbed ‘Panda Dogs,’ are simply painted Chow Chow dogs.

The revelation sparked a mix of amusement and outrage across social media.

THE VIRAL ‘PANDA DOGS’

A visitor filmed the dogs dyed to resemble the iconic black-and-white pandas.

The video, shared on Douyin, China’s version of TikTok, quickly gained traction.

It has since been viewed millions of times, with over 1.4 million shares and 725,000 likes, according to CNN.

The zoo’s cheeky marketing strategy has caught the attention of animal lovers everywhere.

‘PANDA DOGS’ IN THE ZOO

In one clip, the fluffy Chow Chows playfully frolic in their enclosure, complete with a sign reading “painted dogs.”

The sign cheekily states, “We call ourselves Panda Dogs, a pet dog that looks like a panda, dyed and dressed up as Chow Chow.”

We are gentle, smart, friendly, cute and adorable!” Huang, the zoo’s manager, defended the initiative, according to Daily Mail.

THE ‘PANDA DOGS’ CRAZE IN CHINA

“You can see by our name, we are ‘Strange Animals and Cute Pets Paradise,’” she told state-affiliated outlet Sichuan Observation.

“These are Chow Chow dogs painted to look like pandas.” This is part of our specialties.”

It appears that the zoo is banking on its quirky appeal to draw in visitors.

However, this isn’t the first time people have painted dogs to look like pandas in China.

BETTER TREATMENT OF ANIMALS

Earlier this year, a zoo in Jiangsu province faced backlash after it painted two dogs in a similar manner, according to Times Now News.

After widespread criticism, that zoo also admitted to the ruse. This trend has raised eyebrows and led to calls for better treatment of animals.

HARMFUL PRACTICES

In 2019, a café in Chengdu faced condemnation for offering a service that dyed pets to resemble pandas.

Pet shops in Guangdong got implicated in a scandal in 2016 when authorities caught them selling dogs dyed to look like miniature tigers.

Critics argue that these practices are not only deceptive but also harmful.

Animal welfare advocates express concerns about the chemicals used in dyes, which may pose health risks to the dogs.

‘PANDA DOGS’ AND THE WELL-BEING OF ANIMALS

One local activist commented, “While it may seem fun to dress up dogs as pandas, we must prioritise their health and well-being.

This trend is troubling and sends the wrong message about how we treat animals.”

On the other hand, many social media users find the concept amusing.

PUBLIC REACTIONS

Comments on Douyin range from playful to critical, with some users expressing delight over the ‘Panda Dogs.’

“They look adorable!” one user posted, while another quipped, “Only in China can you see such creativity!”

ZOO WILL NOT APOLOGISE

As the story continues to unfold, the zoo remains unapologetic. Huang believes the painted dogs have captured the hearts of many.

“They are a unique attraction, and people love them,” she said. “We aim to provide a fun experience for our visitors.”

Despite the mixed reactions, it’s clear that the ‘Panda Dogs’ have brought unexpected attention to the zoo.

AN UNUSUAL SPECTACLE

As the videos circulate and discussions heat up, this unusual spectacle has sparked a wider conversation about animal welfare and marketing ethics.

In a world where social media dictates trends, the fate of these painted pups remains uncertain. Will the zoo continue its whimsical approach, or will it reconsider the implications of such practices?

Only time will tell. But for now, the ‘Panda Dogs’ are undoubtedly the talk of the town, blending cuteness with controversy in a uniquely Chinese fashion.