A Special Plea ： Help Save Shanghai’s Temple for Stray Animals
Source: OT-Team(G)，
This is not just a story—it's a heartfelt plea for help. Deep in the outskirts of Shanghai, a humble temple has quietly become a refuge for over 10,000 stray animals. Now, this sanctuary is on the brink of collapse, and the animals it shelters face an uncertain future.
Nestled in Qingcun Town, Fengxian District, about 50 kilometers from Shanghai's city center, stands Bao'en Temple, a 500-year-old place of peace and compassion. Unlike bustling temples filled with worshippers and incense, Bao'en Temple is quiet, its walls sheltering lives often forgotten by the world. Since 1993, this temple has rescued thousands of stray cats, dogs, and even birds—giving them warmth, care, and a second chance at life. At the heart of this sanctuary is Master Zhixiang, a 55-year-old monk who has dedicated his life to saving abandoned animals. For over 30 years, he has worked tirelessly to care for these voiceless souls. He doesn't wear the traditional monk's robes. Instead, he puts on a red work uniform, drives an old van, and rushes between the temple and the city, rescuing animals in need. His days begin at 4 a.m. and rarely end before midnight. Every moment counts—he knows that even a slight delay could mean the loss of another precious life.
Today, Bao'en Temple is home to over 13,000 rescued dogs, along with cats, rabbits, ducks, pigeons, geese, and even peacocks. Every month, the temple uses more than 100 tons of dog food just to keep these animals fed. Master Zhixiang ensures each animal receives vaccinations and medical care, hoping to give them a safe and healthy home. But this compassionate mission is now in grave danger. The temple is overwhelmed by the number of animals needing help, and its resources are nearly exhausted. The cost of food, medical care, and daily operations is more than one man can bear. Master Zhixiang has made an urgent call for help, hoping that kind-hearted people will step forward to keep this sanctuary alive. His love for these animals is boundless. He not only rescues them but also works hard to find them loving homes. Families from across China and even other countries have adopted dogs and cats from the temple. With the help of volunteers, some lucky dogs have flown to Beijing, Kunming, and even Europe, beginning new lives in caring homes. Master Zhixiang once said, "If I don't save them, they might not even see tonight's moon, let alone tomorrow's sun." His first rescue, a cat named Laifu, stayed by his side for 14 years. When Laifu passed away in 2019, Zhixiang buried him at the temple and placed a solar-powered chanting machine at his grave to continuously pray for his soul. This small act reflects the deep compassion he holds for every life he saves. But compassion alone cannot sustain Bao'en Temple. Master Zhixiang has carried this burden for decades, but now he cannot continue without help. He believes, "Rescue shouldn't rely on one person's all-out effort, but on everyone doing what they can." Today, we ask you to be part of this mission. Whether it's donating food, offering financial support, or simply sharing this story, your kindness can save lives. Let's come together to protect this sanctuary and the thousands of animals that call it home. With your support, Bao'en Temple can continue to be a beacon of hope for those who have no one else. If you wish to support Bao'en Temple's ongoing rescue project, you can scan the QR code below to donate dog food for the rescued animals. Every contribution helps provide warmth and nourishment to the countless stray animals in need.
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