"CityUHK PetPower" was held on campus by the Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences (JCC) at City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) to celebrate the power of human–animal bonds with a variety of engaging activities. 

Faculty members and students brought their dogs to the event, allowing other students to unwind and de-stress by interacting with the furry companions. 

The event exuded a vibrant and relaxed ambiance as JCC faculty and students, along with representatives from the Animals Asia Foundation, brought their own vet school dogs and “Professor Paws", respectively, to meet the participants. The playful interactions and photo-taking with the pooches allowed everyone to relax, relieve their academic and daily pressure, and enjoy delightful moments together.

During the event, Professor Vanessa Barrs, Dean of the JCC, emphasised that the human–animal bond is more important than ever in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world. “Petting cats and dogs can help reduce anxiety and lower heart rate and blood pressure. The companionship of animals can also alleviate loneliness and isolation,” she added.

Dr Larry Ng Ching-wah, Director of CityUHK’s Student Development Services (SDS), highlighted the significance of pets in promoting human psychological well-being. He introduced various activities organised by SDS to help students alleviate stress, such as regularly inviting registered therapy dogs, like “Professor Paws”, from the Animals Asia Foundation to visit CityUHK to interact with students. Dr Ng also encouraged students to join CityUHK's Community Engagement Programme to volunteer at animal shelters. 

Other activities in the event included a dog-training seminar, conducted by a dog trainer, to help students develop bonds with dogs and a panel discussion, led by experts and scholars, delving into human–pet relationships, and sharing insights on the advantages of owning a pet and the essential factors that need to be considered before becoming a pet owner.

Cherish Sum and Bertina Sum, twin sisters and both first-year students in the Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine programme, participated in the event with their dogs. They said it was a meaningful event because it provided the participants with a chance to joyfully interact with dogs and learn more about pet ownership, while also raising awareness of animal welfare. 

Other collaborating and supporting organisations of “CityUHK PetPower” included the Animals Asia Foundation, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), SDS of CityUHK, the Veterinary Medicine Society of CityUHK, the School of Continuing and Professional Education (SCOPE) of CityUHK and Kakato Premium Pet Food.

Media enquiries: Pinky Choi, Communications and Institutional Research Office, CityUHK (Tel: 3442 9322 or 97121795)