Hefei dog owners fretting over the future of larger hounds, which are to be banned by a new regulation, applauded news that the local zoo will adopt the dogs they will have to give up.

Zoo director Jiang said there is more than 60 square metres of land at the zoo available for the dogs. The zoo will provide staff to specifically look after the dogs, free of charge to their former owners.

The only thing the owners are required to do is visit their old best friend regularly, bringing dog food.