First featured in this column in January of this year, Hercules had come to ARK in a state of severe neglect. He was nearly starved, with no muscle, a horribly scruffy coat and dull eyes that reflected no joy.
Wonderfully, Hercules was rescued by a family of heroes. He was adopted by the Hongos of Saitama: father Tsuyoshi, mother Tomoko and daughter Tokoha. And, it is very clear from photos now that the old dog is nowhere to be seen and the new Hercules is huge, gorgeous and, best of all, happier.
This stunning 10-year-old Siberian husky deserves his name now. Tomoko says she clearly remembers the day they found Hercules at an adoption fair.
¡°It really was love at first sight,¡± she says. ¡°We knew straight away that he was the one!¡±
After their decision to adopt, the Hongos spoke with their vet and did a great deal of research into senior dogs. What the family hadn¡¯t anticipated was how Hercules would affect them.
¡°He¡¯s the center of our world,¡± Tomoko says. Routines revolve around the dog, and his very presence has changed the family dynamics. ¡°We all get up early now, and our daughter looks after Hercules like a brother. And, my husband has become even sweeter and kinder.¡±
The Hongos¡¯ new addition has also attracted more guests, including, Tomoko says, ¡°My son, his wife, my brother-in-law and his family, who often come and help with walks. At mealtime, everyone wants to feed Hercules, so it¡¯s a little confusing, (and while this has caused a few tummy aches for the dog) he¡¯s got a good appetite so he doesn¡¯t mind.¡±
¡°We are incredibly grateful to ARK for bringing Hercules into our lives,¡± Tomoko says on behalf of the family. ¡°We feel so blessed to be able to experience such joy.¡±
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