"Xiao Li… I will always remember you!" I was still a newborn baby when we first saw each other, and Xiao Li was fuzzy black ball of further with a subtle jasmine scent. Mommy told me this was how you got your name. The life of a stray had not taken away Xiao Li's trust of humans. We played and had fun together throughout 19 years. Whenever I was sad or down in the dumps, Xiao Li would quietly come over, lick my hand, and stay by my side, as if telling me: "It's okay; even if the sky was falling, you'd still have me." Xiao Li's constant comforting encouraged me. I am a boy, and don’t cry often, but Xiao Li always stayed by my side when I wept. When we were finally separated at the age of 19, I cried my heart out because I knew that she would no longer be there to lick my hand. I know that Xiao Li has gone across that distant rainbow bridge, and I had to let go. Thank you, Xiao Li; you probably know that there are many things we never had time to tell each other. I wish I had another chance to walk and run with you; you will always live in my memories, and our love will continue forever.

I am a new veterinarian at Taichung Animal Shelter, and this is my story about Xiao Li. There are many dogs at the Animal Shelter who are as sympathetic and loving as Xiao Li waiting for some happiness of their own. It's now my turn to protect them, and call on everyone to "support adoption and oppose abandonment—Yes, we can!"