BEIJING (Web Desk) – A unique dog rental service has been introduced in China, offering people the chance to spend time with pet dogs without taking on the long-term responsibilities of ownership.
The service, launched by Chinese platform Wang Fu in March, allows users to rent dogs by the hour and is currently available in major cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen.
Under the service, dog owners upload profiles and photographs of their pets to the platform. Interested users can then select a dog and request to take it for a one- or two-hour walk.
Rental fees range from 10 to 60 yuan (approximately $1.50 to $9), depending on the booking.
To safeguard the animals, the platform has introduced several safety measures. Owners and users mutually agree on the time and location for handing over and returning the dog, while walks are restricted to areas familiar to the animal.
The platform also monitors the dog's movements through real-time location tracking. Users are required to notify the owner immediately if they observe any unusual behaviour during the walk.
According to Wang Fu, both pet owners and users must complete real-name identity verification before using the service. The platform also provides insurance coverage for the animals in case of unexpected incidents.
The concept has gained popularity across China, but it has also sparked debate.
Supporters argue that the service allows people to enjoy the companionship of dogs and may encourage more responsible pet adoption in the future. Critics, however, warn that repeatedly exposing dogs to different people, environments, and routines could cause stress and anxiety for the animals.
Animal welfare advocates have also raised ethical concerns about renting out pets for financial gain, questioning whether such arrangements adequately protect the well-being of the animals.