HANGZHOU — In the heart of Hangzhou, a vibrant city in East China's Zhejiang province, Pangmu Bobo recently had the chance to enjoy pet-friendly innovation amid the hustle and bustle of a busy shopping district.

Gone were the days of being confined to a corner; the spirited Border Collie was now able to enjoy the freedom of a dedicated pet elevator. This thoughtful amenity allowed Pangmu Bobo to move freely, without having to worry about disturbing fellow passengers, and marked a step forward in urban pet inclusivity.

The Collie's tail-wagging delight over the pet-friendly facilities introduced by Xixi Paradise Walk also extended to features like cozy pet restrooms, amenities that have redefined the shopping experience for furry friends and their owners alike.

Similar facilities are becoming increasingly common across the country. Shenzhen, in South China's Guangdong province, has launched a special bus route on which passengers can bring their pets. In Wenzhou, Zhejiang, the first pet-themed park has opened with fun equipment like hurdles, slides and jump rings.

In stark contrast to the old, off-putting signs that read "No pets allowed in shopping malls" or "Pets not permitted on board", more and more urban residents are discovering that once rigid rules are giving way to warm welcomes and genuine respect for their furry companions.

The pet-friendly community taking shape in China reflects the growing importance of animals in the lives of many people.

"Petting cats and dogs has become a way for many to manage their emotions," says Xu Weirong, secretary-general of the Zhejiang Provincial Joint Conference for the Pet Industry and executive director of the Pet Economy Research Center.

Pets help relieve workplace stress and provide emotional comfort. An increasing number of businesses, tourist destinations and shopping malls are rolling out pet-friendly policies. "They see it as a great way to improve their image, attract more people, and stimulate spending," Xu adds.