Dog, Cat Shelters Seek Online Fan Support amid Inflation

Tokyo, Oct. 1 (Jiji Press)–Prolonged inflation in Japan is having a serious impact on many animal shelters, prompting them to seek support from online fans amid declining donations including food and higher costs for essential goods and medical care. Some groups have turned to “oshikatsu,” or activities for enthusiastic support of “oshi,” or favorite characters or idols, to lure donations and supporters through online exchanges. Oami Hinanjo, a general incorporated association in Yokohama, south of Tokyo, which cares for some 200 rescued dogs and cats, has seen donations of supplies drop by 30 pct this year so far. Half of the dogs and cats have health problems when they are taken in, and the burden of medical costs, which account for 60 pct of its operating costs, is increasing, according to the group. Against this background, the group has started to raise online donations starting at 500 yen, while also selling original T-shirts and other goods, to secure operating funds. “We don’t want to be stingy with what is necessary,” said Naoko Oami, who heads the shelter. “Even small donations are welcome.” Neconote Co., a Tokyo-based company, has launched an oshikatsu-based service designed to connect animal shelters with fan supporters. The company set up a networking site to match supporters with cats in shelters in February 2022, allowing users to choose oshi cats, give snacks in units of 100 yen and play with toys via shelter staff. Users can watch their oshi cats through social media live streams and enjoy their reactions in real time. More than 1,600 cats from 100 shelters have been registered with the service. The company added a new feature to the service in February this year, enabling users to become foster parents of oshi cats by donating 3,500 yen per month. Foster parents can get oshi cat reports every week, make individual video calls and meet the animals in person. “We hope this service, which enables two-way communication, will not only be a place to raise funds but also serve as a way for users’ messages of support to encourage shelter workers,” Neconote President Junta Mayuzumi said. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]