Last week, we received a call from the San Francisco SPCA (SFSPCA), asking if Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue could support a very special needs boy. Talgi was one of a group of 64 dogs rescued by the Humane Society International from a South Korean dog meat “farm” in February, 2016. There have been a series of these rescues. The Humane Society contracts with the farmer to shut them down and transition them to a more humane livelihood. Sadly, their work has only begun.

This video captures their rescue. Some may not want to view.

SFSPCA provided preliminary medical care as well as behavioral assessments and behavioral support. Many of the dogs have been adopted, but those with special needs went to rescues like ours for further care before being adopted to loving homes. These are dogs that had never been out of cages, and all they knew of humans was indifference and inhumane conditions. When we said we would happily accept Talgi and explained our facility, they asked if we could take another…and another…and another. We, of course, said ‘yes’ to all four.

They arrived late last week. Having never worn collars and leashes, we carried their transport crates to their new “dorm rooms” to avoid distressing them.

Over the next few days, a small, dedicated team of volunteers began working with them. They were introduced to grass under their feet,

fresh country air,

and we earned enough trust to get collars and leashes on them, a vital step in their journey home.

Meet Lena, a five-year-old girl,

Myra, a three-year-old girl,

Roger, a six month old boy,

And Talgi – now “Tag”, a one-year-old boy.

Tag has the greatest needs. Afraid and hurting with a ruptured ear membrane, he hugged the ground the first few days.

Then we discovered that healing powers of Roger who moves from dog to dog providing reassurance and kisses.

We have a long way to go, but their transformation is underway as these pictures show.

If you promise not to hound us about their availability, we promise to keep you posted on their progress!

It is so fulfilling to be part of a network that saves and transforms lives.

We are so grateful to the Humane Society International and to the San Francisco SPCA for their lead roles in this rescue effort, acknowledging those on the front line of saving these four lives:

Lola Webber, Change for Animals Foundation and Consultant, Humane Society International
Adam Parascandola, Director, Humane Society United States
Dr. Jeannie Berger, DVM, DACVB, DACAW, CAWA, SPCA, Director of Behavior Resources
Frances Ho, SPCA Animal Transfer and Partnership Associate Behavior and Training Rescue Row
Curt Adkins, SFSPCA Adoption Liaison

We were honored to help with our four special needs kids when asked to lend a hand. We are able to do so because of the incredible facility we have built together, and our devoted volunteers. And in this way, you all played an important role as well in this rescue effort.

Thank you…and stay tuned for more.

Additional links. Note: The dogs are shown in their cages, but nothing more.

Humane Society International Facebook Story
Humane Society International Video