A domestic service company revealed yesterday that Zhuhai, a coastal city in southern China's Guangdong Province, has spotted a new profession, "pet nannies" who specialize in taking care of dogs and cats and earning salaries higher than normal nannies, with monthly compensation around 700 to 800 yuan (US$90 to US$100), some even earning up to 1,000 yuan per month.

Yesterday, a Madam Cao of one Zhuhai domestic helper referral agency said her company has often been asked by clients to engage the services of special nannies to take care of their pets," the principal work is caring for pets, feeding them, playing with them, walking them outside the home, bathing them, rather leisurely work." The most desirable pet nannies are older women who have work experience in pet shops, with knowledge of caring for pets, have a good heart and love animals and would not abuse them. After they are employed, these nannies do not have to do other housework.

Regarding this type of "dog nanny," some Zhuhai residents have strong objections. "Letting people take care of just animals is an insult to humans." But some residents said it is no big deal. "Dog nanny" is just like veterinarian, or dog feeder, it is just a job.

(Chinanews.cn October 11, 2005)