A man orders his pet sea lion to 「stay」 outside the five-star Ocean Spring Metropark Hotel in Qingdao, Shandong Province on July 13. The unnamed man booked the hotel’s swimming pool area to throw a birthday party for his unusual pet, a second-class protected animal in China. Photos: CFP
The sea lion 「shakes hands」 with its owner by the pool. Owners of State-protected animals must obtain a permit from the department of wildlife administration under the State Council.
The man gives commands to his pet as the hotel’s chef looks on.
Pictured is the site of the sea lion’s birthday on July 13.
The lucky pet tries out the hotel pool.
The sea lion enjoys the luxurious pool.
The sea lion
A birthday feast prepared for the sea lion
The man and his pet sit together on deck chairs.
The sea lion kisses its owner.