The first time I saw the photo asking for help, my heart sank. The dog in the image looked utterly miserable—his belly was as big as a wheel, and he was clearly struggling to breathe. Weakly, he was hiding under a tree, trying to shield himself from the harsh sunlight. It was clear that this dog was in pain, and he needed immediate help. As I stared at the photo, I could not ignore the feeling of helplessness that washed over me. He was alone, abandoned, and begging for food while suffering from a severe medical condition.
This dog had been found at Kaohsiung Port, a place he had likely called home for far too long. His condition was heart-wrenching—his swollen belly was a sign of a life lived in neglect. It was not just the size of his stomach that was troubling, but also his difficulty breathing. The poor dog was weak, exhausted, and desperate for relief. When the weather became unbearably hot, he could only find brief respite by hiding under the shade of trees or any available shelter, trying to avoid the scorching sun that only added to his misery. The situation was dire, and it seemed like his life had been nothing more than a constant struggle for survival.
Fortunately, the call for help was heard, and rescue efforts were soon underway. The dog, now named Hong Kong, was rushed to the veterinarian, where it was discovered that he was suffering from a massive build-up of fluid in his abdomen—ascites. The vets immediately began the process of draining the excess fluid from his body. An astonishing 9,000 milliliters of ascites were removed, which had been weighing him down and contributing to his difficulty breathing. The procedure, though challenging, was a success, and soon Hong Kong’s body and mind were significantly lighter. His breathing became easier, and for the first time in a long while, he could move without the burden of the fluid that had made every step a struggle.
Hong Kong’s transformation was nothing short of miraculous. The dog who had once wandered the streets, struggling for survival, now had the chance to live a healthier and happier life. His rescue was the beginning of a new chapter. No longer did he have to endure the loneliness of the streets or suffer in silence. With the proper care and attention, Hong Kong slowly began to regain his strength. He was given the love and comfort he had long been deprived of, and his once sad and hopeless eyes began to shine with gratitude and joy.
Now, Hong Kong has someone to take care of him—a person who is dedicated to ensuring he is safe, healthy, and loved. He no longer has to worry about where his next meal will come from or how to protect himself from the elements. He enjoys the warmth of a loving home, where he can finally relax and experience the comfort and companionship he so desperately needed. Hong Kong’s story is one of resilience and hope, a reminder that no matter how difficult life may seem, there is always a chance for a second chance.
With his new beginning, Hong Kong is now thriving, enjoying the simple pleasures of life that were once denied to him. From the streets of Kaohsiung to a place of safety and love, this dog’s journey is a testament to the power of compassion and the incredible ability of animals to heal and thrive when given the care they deserve.
