Operating a taxi equipped with waterproof mats, paper boxes and pet food, a 54-year-old Taipei cab driver not only transports human passengers, but also ferries stray animals to their new owners.

For several years Yu Ho-ching (尤河清) has helped animal shelters and volunteers take strays to their new homes, for a reasonable fee, in spite of the threat of unpleasant odors that nervous animals may leave behind.

Yu has also provided free rides to stray animals whose foster carers are financially disadvantaged and he sometimes purchases pet supplies himself.

In an effort to ensure the comfort of animals riding in his car, Yu keeps a stash of pet food, places waterproof mats on the rear seats of his taxi and paper boxes on the floor mats.

Except for untamed strays, all animal passengers can be uncaged and are allowed to move freely around the taxi.

“I also try to ‘make conversation’ with these animals to alleviate their anxiety and calm them down,” Yu said.

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