At least two dogs have died, with another eight suffering from heatstroke on the opening day of Pet Fair Asian.
As temperatures reached more than 35c owners ignored warnings not to bring pets to the show.
Shanghai meteorological authority also issued an orange heat wave alert – meaning temperatures could reach 37 degrees – on Saturday morning.
Organisers released the following statement: “The organiser of Pet Fair Asia would like to express its sincere regrets regarding the unfortunate death of two dogs last week on the fairground.
“Pet ownership and market volume in China are rising quickly along with the development of the middle class, highlighting the need for large scale public training and education.
“This summer, multiple messages discouraging dog owners to bring their pets to the show were released prior to the event, while the usual good practices and common sense behaviour were emphasised throughout the fair.
“Because the show is reaching a wide audience, Pet Fair Asia plays a decisive role in pet ownership education, both during the exhibition in Shanghai and all along the year through online platforms and physical events across China.
“The organiser – as well as numerous of its exhibitors – are putting continuous efforts to develop among the public a better understanding of pet needs and behaviours.”
“In 2017, Pet Fair Asia will be relocated to a larger venue (Shanghai New International Expo Center) in order to address the growing flow of visitors and offer a safe and enjoyable on-site experience.
“Meanwhile, the organiser has announced it will upgrade safety control among service suppliers and reinforce the promotion of pet ownership best practices before future events.”
The next edition of Pet Fair Asia will take place on August 24-27, 2017.
