Rescue story
In the summer of 2023, WEACT headed to a breeding facility in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi-do upon receiving a report. Despite having official government approval, the scene was more distressing than anything we had witnessed before. It was filled with severe abuse, illicit euthanizations, unauthorized c-section procedures, and other unlawful practices. Dogs with ruptured eyes, injured limbs, and such severe emaciation that they were in a state of shock were discovered. These unfortunate dogs had endured continuous breeding within cramped cages, with their lives disregarded, devoid of any compassion. Drawing from the evidence gathered at the scene and the tips we had received, WEACT confirmed the harrowing act of using a box cutter to open a mother dog's belly to extract the puppies. We also uncovered a freezer containing over 100 dog carcasses wrapped in newspaper. When the freezer became too crowded, the dogs were illegally buried in the nearby mountains. Initially estimating around 800 dogs at the site, we were ultimately astounded to discover a staggering total of 1,426 dogs. Fortunately, the dedicated efforts of approximately 20 fellow organizations who swiftly offered their assistance, volunteers from across the country, various government agencies, and the cooperation of Gyeonggi-do provided invaluable support for the rescue mission. Together, we achieved an unprecedented miracle by saving all the abused dogs. WEACT brought home 32 dogs, including #weact_popo.


Personality
Popo is brimming with affection. She adores both human and dog friends, always excited to play and include everyone. With her cheerful personality, Popo not only elicits hearty laughter but also brightens the atmosphere with charming antics, earning her the title of mood-maker at WEACT. Occasionally, the curious Popo transforms into an adventurer. With her favorite treats and cherished wood stick, Popo is fearless! Whether she's known as the Alley Boss, Mood-Maker, or Adventurer, she boasts thousands of nicknames. How about creating a new one while spending time with Popo?


With humans
Popo is all about love for people! Upon meeting someone new, she approaches without hesitation, displaying genuine interest. With familiar faces, she becomes an even more affectionate sweetheart. However, since Popo hasn't interacted much with children, it's advisable to observe her reactions around them.


With dogs
Popo is very friendly and gets along well with other rescues from Hwasung. She enthusiastically approaches larger friends, sniffing them with curiosity. Energetic and playful, Popo may climb or mount on others. With those she really likes, she may even engage in grooming. It's important to be cautious in situations where her enthusiastic displays of affection might make other friends uncomfortable.


With cats
Popo hasn't met or lived with cats before.


Energy level
To help Popo expend her energy, please take her on walks 2-3 times a day. If you bring her to a field, you might witness her cheetah-like agility. However, keep in mind that energy has its limits! After a session of joyful play, allow her some rest time to comfortably recharge.


Shedding/Barking
Popo sheds minimally and may bark when she spots a friend through the fence or as mealtime approaches. She effectively communicates her feelings.


Needs help with
Popo can get very excited and may attempt to escape if confined. Make sure to secure the door to prevent any unexpected incidents. Introduce commands like 'wait' or engage in crate training to help Popo relax throughout the day. Using her name, treats, or toys can be beneficial in maintaining her focus during training sessions. Popo's abundant affection might make other dogs uncomfortable, so guide her in developing good manners. As she continues to learn about living with humans, provide potty training and intervene when she displays coprophagia.


Health specifics
Rescued from the #HwaseongIllegalPuppyMill, where abuse and neglect were rampant, Popo had already endured significant challenges. She has trichiasis, early-stage cataracts, and a rare condition known as vitreous degeneration. Moreover, she has stage 2 patellar luxation in both kneecaps, requiring meticulous and continuous care.

Trichiasis: An eye condition in which the eyelashes grow toward the eye rather than away from it, causing irritation to the eye.

Vitreous Degeneration: An eye condition in which the vitreous gel will shrink and become more liquid.


Ideal family
A family that can give consistent attention and love to Popo would be perfect. She loves people a lot and will enjoy family time and benefit from proper training. If there are other dogs at home, consider how well they get along with her active nature. Popo can adjust well to any home, but there are a few challenges. While she's calm during grooming, she's afraid of water, so bathe her slowly. Also, provide various activities and walks to prevent her from chewing on pee pads or household items. Due to her knee and eye conditions, diligent care is necessary. Popo looks forward to joining a caring, responsible family to share a vibrant and healthy life.


More photos and videos
https://www.instagram.com/tags/위액트포포