"It's most important to understand dogs. They are not robots and also have emotions," he says.

Beautiful China: Smooth as silk

In 1997, Barden came to Beijing from the US and was an editor for a magazine. He's now a freelance translator for film scripts and subtitles.

In the early years, he only helped his friends foster dogs and cats. But he soon became a magnet for stray animals.

He focuses on freelance work about half the year so that he can spare as much time as possible on his charity work. He now spends an average of 10 hours every day updating his weibo and taking care of the dogs.

The shelter needs money for the rent, salary of workers, dog food and medical care. He does not take a salary.

"I often forget I'm a foreigner. Many kind-hearted Chinese have offered their help in the past years and I now feel Beijing is my real hometown," he says.

He offers pet adoption, and whatever information about the dogs that he can, for free.

He says most homeless dogs are both healthy and cute, so adopting should replace buying. One has to send the homeless dog to a hospital to ensure its health before raising it.

"Right now, my biggest dream is to start my own hospital, that would be focused on rescued animals, offering discounted or free services to people who want to help animals in need but can't afford it."

xulin@chinadaily.com.cn