For over a year, a stray dog lived near Xuan Thanh train station in Anhui province. Taxi drivers often fed the animal bread and sausages while waiting for passengers. They named it "Station Chief Huang" because of its lively and gentle demeanor.
He Wei, a taxi driver in Anhui, noted that the dog knew exactly how to interact with people. "In its eyes, the taxi drivers were like family," Wei said.
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The stray dog named Huang was discovered by the taxi drivers after a traffic accident in the grass near Xuan Thanh train station, Anhui province, in late April 2026. *Photo: Douyin* |
In April 2026, a car struck the dog, breaking its leg. People found it lying helpless in the grass, unable to move or eat. Its wound was severely infected.
The drivers took Huang to two veterinary hospitals. Doctors estimated the surgery would cost over 10,000 yuan (nearly 1,500 USD), far exceeding their means. They contacted two local wildlife rescuers, Huaba and Qingtian, for assistance.
When the rescue team arrived at the station, a driver handed Huaba a crumpled paper with a donation list and taxi license plate numbers, which stunned him. "The people here are truly dedicated to saving this stray dog, unlike others who call for help and then abandon the effort," he stated.
The donation of over 4,000 yuan held significant meaning, given the pressures facing the transport industry. China currently has over 7 million ride-hailing drivers experiencing a severe decline in average income. Many cities have warned of market saturation due to an oversupply of drivers.
The veterinary hospital decided to waive all remaining medical costs after learning the story.
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Taxi drivers in Anhui province donated money for the stray dog's surgery. *Photo: Douyin* |
Huaba uploaded a rescue video to Douyin, attracting over 370,000 likes. China Central Television (CCTV) also reported on the incident.
The stray dog's rescue story contributed to Xuan Thanh's newfound fame. During the International Labor Day holiday on May 1st, standees featuring Huang appeared at many local tourist spots. Visitors even sought out the veterinary hospital to meet the dog.
Driver He Wei created a series of small "Station Chief Huang" figurines as gifts for those involved in the rescue, as a token of gratitude.
The successful surgery helped Huang recover well. Huaba stated that its mobility was restored to about 80% of its previous level.
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Huang gradually regained its health after treatment at the veterinary hospital in Anhui province. *Photo: Douyin* |
The rescue team expressed concern that some individuals might try to profit from the dog's fame. Some purported fans attempted to blend in and steal the dog on the spot, but were unsuccessful.
Veterinarians and Huaba continued to care for the dog while discussing a long-term home for it. "I hope Huang finds a real family and lives a full life," the rescuer shared.
By Minh Phuong (According to SixthTone)


