On March 11, 2025, a poignant story emerged from Hangzhou, China, highlighting the emotional bond between a pet owner and her dog. A woman named Xu, devastated by the loss of her Doberman named Joker, chose to clone him at a significant cost of approximately 160,000 yuan. This decision not only reflects her deep attachment to her pet but also sheds light on the growing pet cloning industry in China.

The Bond with Joker

Early Years

Xu adopted Joker in 2011, and over the years, they developed a profound relationship. For Xu, Joker was not merely a pet; he was a source of companionship and security, especially during times when she lived alone. The bond was characterized by mutual trust and affection, with Joker being a constant presence in Xu's life, witnessing her journey through studies and career advancements.

Health Struggles

Despite their strong bond, Joker faced significant health challenges as he aged. He developed malignant sarcoma, which required painful surgeries conducted without sedation. Despite receiving medical attention, including regular treatments at a pet hospital in Shanghai, Joker's health deteriorated. In November 2022, he suffered a heart attack and passed away at the age of 11, leaving Xu heartbroken.

Emotional Impact of Loss

Xu's grief following Joker's death was profound. She experienced insomnia, a weakened immune system, and frequent illnesses as a result of her emotional turmoil. In an interview with the South China Morning Post, Xu expressed her feelings, stating that Joker was her closest friend and had been a witness to a decade of her life. His loss left a significant void in her daily existence.

Decision to Clone

Understanding the Cloning Process

With a medical background, Xu was aware of the pet cloning industry in China, which is regulated by specific qualifications that companies must meet to perform cloning procedures. After thorough research and consultations with various experts, Xu decided to pursue cloning as a way to cope with her loss and potentially recreate the bond she had with Joker.

Cloning Procedure

The cloning process involves several intricate steps:

1. Sample Collection: A small skin sample is taken from the original pet.
2. Cell Extraction: Cells are extracted from the sample.
3. Embryo Creation: These cells are merged with an egg cell from a donor animal to create an embryo.
4. Implantation: The embryo is then implanted into a surrogate mother.

The cloned pet is expected to closely resemble the original and exhibit similar behaviors, all while developing normally without additional health complications.

The Arrival of Little Joker

After a year of anticipation, Xu received confirmation that the cloning process had been successful. She was provided with regular updates, including ultrasound scans and videos, to track the progress of the cloning. Just before the 2024 Lunar New Year, Xu collected her new dog, whom she named Little Joker.

Similarities to Joker

Upon meeting Little Joker, Xu noticed familiar features, such as a distinctive black spot near his nose, and behaviors reminiscent of Joker, including his habit of stealing socks and drinking water in a particular manner. Little Joker's presence offered Xu a sense of comfort and a new opportunity to nurture and care for a pet, allowing her to channel her love and affection into this new life.

Conclusion

Xu's decision to clone her late dog highlights the emotional complexities surrounding pet ownership and the measures some individuals are willing to take to cope with loss. The story of Xu and Little Joker not only illustrates the advancements in pet cloning technology but also raises questions about the ethics and implications of cloning beloved pets. For Xu, Little Joker represents a second chance to love and care for a dog, helping her navigate the grief of losing Joker while forging a new bond.