May 19, Kathmandu – In South China, an individual was arrested after the owner of a French Bulldog, famous for collecting plastic bottles, reported a suspected plot to poison the dog. The French Bulldog, known by the nickname “Xiaobai,” gained widespread popularity last year for diligently gathering plastic bottles on the streets, winning the hearts of millions.
Xiaobai’s owner, Zhang, revealed that over the past five years, the dog’s collected bottles have generated over 100,000 yuan in revenue. According to Yangcheng Evening News, Xiaobai’s social media account, @gouxiaobai, has 500,000 followers, with some videos viewed over 10 million times.
Zhang explained that on the afternoon of May 7, a “kind” internet user sent him a screenshot of a group chat in which members were conspiring to poison Xiaobai. The group had shared Zhang’s home address and planned to use isoniazid, a medication typically used to treat tuberculosis, to poison the dog. This drug affects the nervous system of animals, ultimately leading to respiratory failure and death. That same evening, a suspicious individual wearing white and carrying an umbrella was seen loitering near Zhang’s home and taking photographs. Zhang promptly submitted chat records from the animal abuse group along with CCTV footage of the suspect to the police.
Police confirmed that the suspects were apprehended on May 8, and the investigation is ongoing. Prior to their arrest, Zhang had to confine Xiaobai indoors out of fear the dog could be poisoned. He noted that during that time, Xiaobai appeared very distressed. However, once allowed outside again, Xiaobai quickly regained his lively spirit and resumed collecting bottles as before.
In a new video clip, Zhang stated, “Xiaobai has returned to work and looks very confident. Those who abuse animals are the refuse of society. I am committed to fighting this group to avenge the animals they have harmed.” This incident has generated significant attention on social media. One online user commented, “I hope the police impose strict penalties on those who attempted to poison the dog. Such malicious acts will ultimately bring misfortune upon themselves.” Another wrote, “This dog is so dear and kind; it has never hurt anyone. Yet these cruel people targeted him. Their mindset is truly twisted!”
