Mongrels are lovable too

My friend told me that a family she knew wanted to adopt a dog. When they asked about adopting a pet they were told that there were lots of mongrels available but they were not interested as they preferred a pedigree dog.

This is a general preference in Hong Kong. Most people like dogs that are cute and pure-bred. I think it's ridiculous to judge a dog from its appearance.

I had a mongrel as a pet when I was young. She was clever and faithful, sometimes she was tender and meek.

I think mongrels are as good as pedigree dogs.

Chan Yim-tung, Christian Alliance S. C. Chan Memorial College

From the Editor

Thanks for your letter, Yim-tung. I have a friend who is a vet at the SPCA. She is always reminding me that mongrels are much stronger and healthier than pedigree dogs.

Pure-bred dogs may look beautiful, but they fall sick much more easily than mixed-breeds. They also often have hereditary problems due to in-breeding. For example, golden retrievers and labradors often have hip problems.

If you like mongrels, but aren't able to keep a dog at home, why not offer to do voluntary work? As long as you're at least 16 years old, the SPCA will let you join their dog walking programme (www.spca.org.hk). You can also volunteer to help clean out kennels.

And the Mongrel Club also has a range of activities you can get involved in, even if you don't have your own dog. Check out their website at www.mongrelclub.hk

Kate, Editor