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In a shocking incident that has sent shockwaves through Chinese social media, a self-proclaimed dog trainer and influencer sparked widespread outrage after his actions led to the death of a dog during a livestream. The disturbing event, which occurred on January 19, 2025, has reignited discussions about animal welfare and the responsibilities of online personalities in China.
Tragic livestream incident shocks millions
Pan Hong, a popular figure on Douyin, China’s equivalent of TikTok, found himself at the center of a firestorm after a routine grooming session turned deadly. With over 16.6 million followers, Pan’s influence in the pet care community was substantial. However, his reputation took a devastating blow when he attempted to bathe an Alaskan Malamute named Aite during a live broadcast.
The video, which quickly went viral, showed Pan and his associates struggling to control the anxious dog in a bathtub. As Aite resisted, the situation escalated alarmingly. In a misguided attempt to subdue the animal, Pan and his helpers resorted to using plastic collars as makeshift muzzles, effectively cutting off the dog’s ability to breathe properly.
Viewers were horrified as they watched Pan strike the distressed animal, attempting to force compliance. The laughter of Pan and his assistant in the face of Aite’s obvious distress only served to fuel the growing anger among netizens. The livestream was abruptly cut short, leaving audiences stunned and concerned about Aite’s fate.
Public outcry and calls for justice
Hours after the ill-fated broadcast, Pan confirmed the worst fears of his audience: Aite had died. The news spread rapidly across Chinese social media platforms, igniting a firestorm of criticism and demands for accountability. The incident drew parallels to other cases of animal mistreatment, such as the heartwarming story of a fast-acting kid who leaped into a pool to save a beloved dog from drowning, highlighting the stark contrast between acts of compassion and Pan’s alleged cruelty.
Animal rights activists and concerned citizens alike called for a thorough investigation into Pan’s practices and the operations of his dog boarding facility. Many questioned the legitimacy of his credentials as a dog trainer, arguing that his methods were not only ineffective but potentially dangerous.
The incident has also sparked a broader conversation about the regulation of pet-related content on social media platforms. Critics argue that the pursuit of viral content and follower engagement should never come at the expense of animal welfare. Some have even called for stricter vetting processes for influencers who claim expertise in animal care and training.
Animals A dog walker sets off on a hike, and as he approaches a hole, he is speechless.
Influencer’s response and attempted justification
Faced with mounting backlash, Pan Hong issued a public apology on his Douyin account. “It’s entirely my fault, so if you want to criticize me, go ahead!” he stated, addressing his followers and Aite’s original owner. “To all of Aite’s fans and his original owner, I sincerely apologize.”
Despite the seemingly contrite tone of his apology, Pan’s attempt to explain away the incident raised further eyebrows. He claimed that Aite had died due to old age and pre-existing heart problems, a justification that was met with widespread skepticism from both his audience and animal welfare experts.
This explanation did little to quell the anger of netizens, who pointed out the visible distress and mistreatment evident in the livestream footage. Many called for a more thorough investigation into the true cause of Aite’s death, with some demanding a full autopsy to determine if the dog’s passing was indeed due to natural causes or a result of the treatment received during the broadcast.
Implications for animal welfare in China
The tragic incident involving Pan Hong and Aite has brought renewed attention to the state of animal welfare laws and enforcement in China. While the country has made strides in recent years, with some heartwarming stories of compassion towards animals gaining traction, critics argue that more comprehensive legislation is needed to protect pets and other animals from abuse and neglect.
Animal rights organizations have seized upon this moment to push for stricter regulations governing the pet care industry, including more rigorous licensing requirements for dog trainers and groomers. They argue that incidents like the one involving Pan Hong underscore the need for better oversight and accountability in the field.
The case has also highlighted the power and responsibility of social media platforms in moderating content related to animals. While platforms like Douyin have policies against animal cruelty, the live nature of Pan’s broadcast raises questions about how such incidents can be prevented or quickly addressed in real-time.
As the controversy continues to unfold, many are hopeful that this tragic event will serve as a catalyst for positive change. Just as unique animal stories can captivate hearts, the public’s response to Aite’s plight demonstrates a growing awareness and concern for animal welfare in China.
While the focus remains on seeking justice for Aite and preventing similar incidents in the future, some observers have drawn parallels to the resilience and adaptability of animals in challenging environments. Much like the bat-eating crocodile species that evolved unique traits after being trapped in a cave for 3,000 years, the hope is that this incident will lead to an evolution in attitudes and practices surrounding animal care in China, ensuring a safer and more compassionate environment for all creatures.
Animals Extinct for 100 years, this mammal has resurfaced, leaving scientists speechless.
