TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) attended a Pingtung County animal shelter’s inauguration ceremony on Sunday (June 30), saying he hopes it will be a “paradise for pets.”

In his speech, Lai acknowledged establishing such a facility requires support from local residents, government leaders, and community organizations. The president thanked Pingtung County Magistrate Chou Chun-mi (周春米) for her efforts and adopted “Ban Ban,” a dog with an amputated leg, to show his support, per CNA.

Covering 3.7 hectares, Lai said the facility offers ample space not only to house stray cats and dogs and wildlife but also to provide medical care, grooming, and behavior training. Lai added he believes this will ensure the protection and welfare of Taiwan’s animals.

“A country that is kind to animals is a civilized one,” Lai said. “Taiwan's public welfare and charity have been rated as the best in Asia by international organizations, proving its continuous advancement.”

The president also thanked the search and rescue dogs during past earthquake rescue operations in Tainan. He emphasized the importance of all types of dogs, including guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and drug detection dogs.

Lai said every city should have comprehensive planning for animals to make Taiwan an animal-friendly nation.

Additionally, Minister of Agriculture Chen Junne-jih (陳駿季) said there are 32 public animal shelters across the country, and 28 are being renovated or under construction.