Rescued Kishu Dog Oji Finds Joy After Losing His Owner

When Oji first arrived at Animal Refuge Kansai, the handsome Kishu dog seemed to have given up on the world. His elderly owner, struggling with dementia, had been forced to surrender him, leaving the dog confused and standoffish.

The shelter staff knew the Japanese breed well. Kishus originated in the Kii Peninsula in Japan's Kansai region and are known for their loyal but independent nature.

Oji's physical condition told part of his story. His skin was in shocking shape when he arrived, suggesting months of neglect as his owner's condition declined. Regular baths fixed the problem quickly.

But the real transformation came from simple pleasures. Daily walks exposed Oji to new sights, sounds, and smells that reignited something inside him. Now he loves his outings so much that getting him back to the shelter has become a playful challenge.

Toys became his bridge back to trusting people. The dog who once kept to himself now brings toys to visitors and asks them to play. He's even started requesting cuddles, a remarkable shift for a breed known for being reserved.

Sunny's Take

True to his Kishu heritage, Oji remains a bit of a prince. He's surprisingly picky about his food and still gets frightened when strangers first approach. But given time and affection, he warms up beautifully.

His transformation shows what dedicated care can do for animals who've lost everything familiar. Oji didn't need anything fancy or expensive. He needed consistency, kindness, and people willing to help him feel safe again.

Animal Refuge Kansai, founded by UK native Elizabeth Oliver, specializes in these second chances. The nonprofit rescues abandoned animals across their Kansai and Tokyo offices, providing vaccinations, neutering, and microchipping before adoption.

The screening process for adopters ensures each animal finds the right match. For Oji, that means someone patient who understands his journey and can give him the stable, loving home he deserves.

Interested adopters can email tokyoark@arkbark.jp or call 050-1557-2763 Monday through Saturday. Staff members speak both English and Japanese.

Oji may mean "prince" in Japanese, but he's really just a dog who wants to be loved again.