In an era of 10 million companion animals, the number of abandoned pets is also on the
rise.
Recently the culture of protecting abandoned pets has been changing.
We went on site to investigate.
This is an abandoned pet adoption center in Seoul.
Adorable animals await their new families.
This dog, named Tory, is affectionate and friendly, but actually comes from a tragic
background.
Tory lived here for 2 years even after being rescued, because of prejudices against non-pure
breeds and black dogs.
But recently, Tory finally met a new owner.
It was none other than President Moon Jae-in.
President Moon Jae-in has said that in addition to human beings, all animals have the right
to be free from prejudice and discrimination.
Already known to have a pet cat named Jjing-jjingi, president Moon’s adoption of Tory has signaled
a turning point in social perceptions and culture regarding abandoned animals.
Adoption inquiries at the center have spiked sharply.
"My heart goes out to so many of them.
It saddened me to see how they like people so much, even though they came in pain."
The adoption process includes confirmation of an applicant’s responsibility, capability
and willingness through thorough verification.
The aim is to prevent formerly abandoned pets from being abandoned yet again.
"We ask basic questions such as what they will do if a problem arises, or how much they
are willing to shoulder for medical costs.
If they answer faithfully, we go through document screening and receive photos of the living
arrangements.
Based on this, we visit the home if needed and carry out a final phone interview.
The pets are delivered upon final confirmation."
In Korea, various animal protection groups have been striving to promote the adoption
of abandoned pets.
The CARE animal rights group is one of them.
"The group was formed in 2002, to prevent painful abuse against animals.
It was a fight until now, as there was no recognition of animals’ rights in the past."
About 40 abandoned dogs are waiting for new owners at this adoption center.
Most have been abused by people, wounded both physically and mentally.
This friendly-looking dog is named Jindori.
Jindori is handicapped, missing two legs.
He was found in this tragic state, roaming the streets, before being reported by a citizen
and rescued by CARE.
"With the rear leg severed, walking would be impossible without a dressing.
We added cushioning to help mobility during sterilization."
Because of the abuse, Jindori was afraid of people at first, but eventually opened up
to the affectionate care of the center’s workers.
Abandoned pets often suffer from health issues due to prolonged abuse and exposure.
“There's a good dog.”
"Abandoned dogs often arrive with infectious diseases, external parasites, or heartworm
infections.
Abused animals have many external wounds, because they are beaten by their owners."
Abandoned and abused due to injures or sickness, these animals are treated for their wounds
at CARE and prepare for new lives.
However, issues remain even after rescue and treatment.
Of the roughly 60 thousand abandoned dogs rescued each year, about 20% are euthanised.
The dogs wait for their owners or adoption at first, but are put down after some time
due to a lack of support capacity.
Animal protection groups are calling for increased animal rights, as they attempt to change abandoned
pet laws which are based on euthanasia.
During his campaign, President Moon Jae-in announced ‘5 key pledges for the happiness
of companion animals in Korea,’ promising expanded animal welfare polices.
“The management system for abandoned pets based on euthanasia must be improved.
Policies and culture must be changed to promote re-adoption.
I promise this.“ “ . . ”
The launch of the new administration is expected to bring about specific measures to promote
re-adoption of abandoned pets.
"This issue cannot be resolved before citizens improve the attitude which leads to abandoned
pets.
We do not abandon our parents or family members when they fall ill."
Many are hoping for true companionship between humans and animals.
Hopes are growing for that dream to be realized through changing cultures and new policies
befitting an era of 10 million companion animals.