[Edit: Was "Previously abused dog now available for rehoming … see last post for update]
AnimalsTaiwan recently took in Lai Foo, a young dog who had spent his entire life alone on a rooftop, in all kinds of weather, either locked in small cage or chained to a wall. A concerned neighbour, Eric, an ex-Forumosan, had persuaded the owners to let him take the dog.
When Lai Foo arrived at the AnimalsTaiwan holding centre, he was very keen to play, but hesitant to approach. If we approached him, Lai Foo would do the strangest thing: he would wag his whole body in delight at getting attention, but at the same time snarl and bare his teeth, snapping at the hand coming to pet him.
It was only after another of Eric’s neighbours came to visit and explained more about Lai Foo’s ordeal that the reason for his strange body language became clear: alone and bored crazy on the roof, Lai Foo would bark to attract a friendly face, but his cries for company were met with horrible abuse; his owners and their maid would beat Lai Foo with a stick and, if his calls for attention carried on, would tie up his muzzle with electrical tape. You can imagine the torture this dog went through in the hot summer months up on the roof, unable to drink or even pant. The neighbour would go see Lai Foo and untie the tape, and the poor canine would go to his bowl and drink for minutes non-stop.
Lai Foo has been conditioned to expect abuse in return for company.
But this wonderful dog has made rapid progress in the few days he has been with AnimalsTaiwan. He is learning how (and loves) to play with other dogs and that there is no need to fear the people he also craves as playmates and company. He can now approach for a cuddle without snapping at fingers, and will soon be able to wag his whole body without also feeling the need to snarl in fear.
Lai Foo loves people, and he’s also good with cats (he’s sharing a room with two right now). He is learning he doesn’t need to bark for attention, and every day is getting better at walking on a leash. He is also completely housebroken.
This beautiful and healthy young dog has been neutered and fully vaccinated, and will soon be available for rehoming. We feel Lai Foo would suit a home with calm, patient people who understand that carrots work far better than sticks, and he would definitely be happier with another dog for company while you are at work.
If you would like to open your home and heart to Lai Foo and show him that there is a very different life to the abusive one he has known, please contact me today on 0920 620 109 or at the e-mail address below. Lai Foo is dying to meet you. 
Thank you.
Sean
