Viral ‘lost dogs journey home’ story in China debunked as false
The story gained traction globally, with social media users romanticising the scene and even creating AI-generated content such as film trailers and reunion images.
A widely circulated video showing a group of dogs walking along a highway in northeastern China has captivated millions online, but the popular narrative surrounding it has been proven false, reports CNN.
The clip, filmed in Jilin province, features seven dogs travelling together, which led to viral claims that they had escaped from being captured for meat consumption and made a long journey back home.
The story gained traction globally, with social media users romanticising the scene and even creating AI-generated content such as film trailers and reunion images inspired by the 1993 Disney film "Homeward Bound."
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However, China's state-backed Cover News later clarified that the storyline was inaccurate.
Investigations found that the dogs were owned by nearby villagers and had not escaped from any transport vehicle.
Reports indicated that the animals were roaming freely, a common occurrence in the area, particularly during mating periods.
The German shepherd seen in the video had been in heat, which likely attracted the other dogs.
Cover News reported that the seven dogs have since gone back to their homes, while the German shepherd has been kept on a leash until the cycle concludes.
