Rescue story
In March 2021, WEACT received a distressing report about dogs dying at #HwaseongPaltanDogFarm. Following an emergency meeting, we immediately initiated an urgent rescue mission to Hwaseong. Twelve dogs were confined in cramped cages or tethered with short leashes, lacking access to food or clean water. Instead, they were forced to subsist on a bowl filled with rotten scraps. During the day, these dogs had to endure the cold, with their entire bodies soaked from rain and snow. At night, in pitch-black darkness where they couldn't see a step ahead, they had to fend for themselves, without anyone to rely on. With the assistance of RE:BIRTH and volunteers from across the country, WEACT successfully rescued all twelve dogs, along with three strays. Emerging from a harsh and frigid environment, #weact_dante is now experiencing a warm world for the first time.


Personality
Dante, with his perked-up brown ears, has mastered the art of playing hard to get at The Home! He's cautious by nature, so he doesn't immediately approach, but he's gradually warming up to receive treats and kibble from familiar hands. New experiences can be challenging for Dante, and he tends to get stressed over minor changes. During his first bath, he shivered and tensed up due to anxiety. Although he seemed to accept it after enjoying some treats, he had an upset stomach the next day. When we introduced him to wearing a leash, he was initially too anxious to sit down. He pretended to be okay, but eventually, he revealed his anxiety, causing some concern. Dante simply needs time to adapt, taking things one step at a time. Thanks to consistent crate training, he now views his crate as a safe space; when you say 'house,' he promptly goes inside to rest. Dante may try to protect his toys when alone, but he's manageable when someone is present.


With humans
How wonderful it would be if we could erase all memories of neglect and abuse by people in an instant. Dante seems to carry a deep-seated fear of humans, but he's gradually bridging the emotional and physical gap with them. He can now accept kibble or treats from the hands of his trusted caregivers. Because Dante is naturally cautious and intelligent, he'll need time to become comfortable with new people. He may need a controlled environment for physical touch, although he doesn't particularly enjoy it. Currently, at The Home, Dante is engaging in various activities and enjoying positive interactions with humans, thanks to our considerate trainers.


With dogs
Dante adores the company of other dogs and forms strong attachments with them. He politely approaches to sniff and enthusiastically runs around the park with compatible friends. While he’s spirited around familiar friends, he can become timid in the presence of unfamiliar volunteers or strangers. It appears that his interactions with other dogs are influenced by the individuals nearby.


With cats
Dante has never met or lived with a cat.


Energy level
Dante seems to prefer going potty outdoors, so it's important to take him for walks at least twice a day. His happiness scale hits a perfect 10 when he's running around the park with his friends. Make sure he gets regular walks to burn off energy in a safe area.


Shedding/Barking
Dante sheds and tends to bark in response to unfamiliar sounds, becoming even more confident and vocal when other dogs are around.


Needs help with
Dante prefers outdoor potty breaks and succeeds about half the time with indoor potty pads. Occasionally, he marks indoors, so consistent potty training is essential. During walks, he's nervous about wearing a leash and reacts anxiously to surrounding noises. If he gets too scared, he sits down, so patience is key. The entire process, from leash training to walking, requires time and gentle guidance. Dante is sensitive to sounds and fearful of human touch; he freezes when touched. It's vital that we work together to help him lower his guard and gradually desensitize him to stimuli.


Health specifics
Dante is healthy. He is currently receiving treatment for skin issues on his chest and legs, involving the use of antiseptic spray and soothing ointment. Additionally, he is on a hypoallergenic kibble to reduce dietary allergies.


Ideal family
Dante's previous experiences in an unstable environment have made him sensitive to external noises, constantly vigilant of his surroundings, and uncertain about how to relax. He requires a secure and nurturing environment where he can learn to manage his emotions at his own pace. While Dante is still adapting to human touch and leash walks, he will make progress with someone who values his pace and exhibits patience. He will thrive and learn effectively with a compatible resident dog. We kindly ask for your patience as he gradually opens up and conquers his fear of people. Dante eagerly anticipates finding a family that will embrace him as their most cherished presence, grateful for the privilege of supporting and encouraging him through every new experience.


More photos and videos
https://www.instagram.com/weactthehome/