The fate of a Hong Kong dog shelter hangs in the balance as the number of animals under its care has doubled after many pet owners moved abroad while volunteers also left the city during the pandemic, leaving the foundation struggling to operate on limited manpower.

The Sai Kung Stray Friends Foundation in Tai Lam Wu village in eastern New Territories had just over 100 dogs two years ago. But the number has doubled since the pandemic began after owners left the city or suffered financial difficulties and could no longer raise their pets.

“We do everything here,” shelter founder Narelle Pamuk said. “We rescue and bring them back here, we provide their medical treatment, their healthcare and rehabilitation, right through to their adoption.”