Think beyond the initial attraction of an adorable puppy or kitty

A former stray dog that was rescued and then fitted with wheels to assist it in walking, at an animal shelter in Shenyang, China. Not all strays are so lucky, however. Photo: AFP

They are everywhere – cowering under parked cars, starring out of dilapidated abandoned buildings, slinking through weeds at derelict sites or curled up in some inconspicuous places, too weak to move.

They are the homeless strays on our streets. Their emaciated bodies, with ribs protruding, bear the scars and raw wounds from past and recent attacks, signs of their suffering.