Stripping away the overall solid performances by cast members, particularly that of sorely missed Gallen Lo, and the attractiveness of odd canine-feline couple Siu Ba and CanCan, When a Dog Loves a Cat had not the potential to receive high TV ratings. More than ever, the average Hong Kong viewer now seeks drama as re-defined by Heart of Greed : season-ending cliffhangers in each episode and arguments that mercilessly hammer away our senses. And that is a disappointment.

Weaknesses are seen in its script and character development, but When a Dog Loves a Cat is less concerned with triggering a full range of emotions and more about promoting ethical approaches to dealing with stray animals. Its message is clear: we have life-long responsibilities to our pets. Some may think these words are too “out there” and laugh, but having made the decision to bring home, care for, and form a bond with another being, should an owner then abandon it so easily on the street?

Of course, life is fragile and filled with unexpected surprises. There may come a time when caring for oneself is difficult let alone another. Having all shelters adopt a “no-kill” policy would be most beneficial to these abandoned pets. Remember: most animals in shelters are not “put to sleep” or “spared” from suffering a serious injury or illness. They are simply killed due to the lack of space, money, and proper medical treatment needed to keep them alive - that is not the true definition of euthanasia.

While the problems are clear, the solutions are not. How many actually have the time and resources to place strays in temporary housing or pet stores for adoption like MC, Chow Chow, and Jim? Far too few, and understandably so. Ultimately, eradication begins at the root of the problem, and basic options still include:

• Do research on an animal beforehand to be sure of compatibility with lifestyle.
• Adopt from a local shelter rather than purchase from a pet store.
• Bring pets to the veterinarian for regular check-ups and immunizations.

At the end of last month, TVBI released an overseas trailer for the much-anticipated The Seventh Day (最美麗的第七天). Cast members Niki Chow, Kevin Cheng, Bosco Wong, and Natalie Tong of Under the Canopy of Love return to portray new characters in this winter-themed love story. Having given up on Canopy after watching its first few episodes, I am relieved to see that Seventh is going to be more tragic and meaningful, featuring stunning sights of Nagoya, one of Japan’s largest cities.

Will two boys born on the seventh day of August also share the same experiences on the road to finding love?

[Spoilers Ahoy]

During an incident on the streets, “Ah Yan” (Niki Chow) meets and falls in love with “Ji Wing” (Kevin Cheng). Unfortunately, “Ah Yan” is later diagnosed with a malignant nasopharyngeal tumor, resulting in her isolation from “Ji Wing.” They eventually reunite, but I am eager to see how this tragic element is played out in the series. Although I do not consider myself a fan of this pairing [as I am indifferent to most], Niki and Kevin do have on-screen chemistry and look quite compatible. With a sizable fan base generated from their successful collaborations in Hard Fate and Canopy, supporters undoubtedly look forward to seeing this couple light up the screen for the third time.

There are limited scenes of “Sa Sa” (Natalie Tong) and “Ah Don” (Bosco Wong) together as the main focus of the trailer is noticeably on “Ah Yan” and “Ji Wing.” However, their relationship seems more light-hearted and playful. Initially, “Ah Don” mistakenly pursues “Sa Sa” with the belief that she is the daughter of a wealthy businessman. I’m actually most interested in seeing these two pair up since this is Natalie’s first leading role, meaning I expect her to give a breakthrough performance; “Sa Sa” seems likable and refreshing as opposed to some of the immature girls she has portrayed.

Overall, I am looking forward to watching Seventh. There is something very appealing and tragically beautiful about the winter setting of a love story. The touching Korean drama Winter Sonata immediately comes to mind [although I think Seventh will present a script with less complexity]. Perhaps it is the coldness that reflects one’s unwillingness to open his/her heart to another or as with snowflakes, we can’t always be in full control of our lives and sometimes end up “drifting” wherever fate carries us. Of course, for those who love snow and don’t often encounter it, the opportunity to see winter scenery of Nagoya is already an incentive to watch Seventh.

Are you anticipating the airing of Seventh?