Japanese Shiba dog living on a short chain. Click to enlarge.
More than 90% of all Japanese dogs live outside on short chains, in snow and heat, alone in solitude suffering depression and neglect as they slowly lose their minds.
A perfect example is a dog at an onsen in Yamanouchi city in Nagano Prefecture. Onsen’s are relaxing natural spring spas, where it’s all about relaxation of the person’s body and mind.
While customers get their zen moment on, the spa’s shiba dog is left to rot on a short chain in snow and ice, heat and sun. His only possession is an empty rotting wooden box, which doubles as his kennel.
The Chiba dog’s rotting kennel. Click to enlarge.
The box contains no bedding at all forcing him to sleep on damp rotting boards, only inches above ice and snow.
It’s reported his collar is very tight and attached to the wall next to him is a sign telling people ‘not to touch’ him. There aren’t any Japanese authorities to call to help because in Japan this is considered normal behaviour and not cruelty.
Remember: dogs have possessions (things) and cats have space (area), so when a dog is kept chained it strips him of his natural born desire to have his own things, like special toys, trees, etc., leaving him depressed and robbed of his inner self.
Name of the offending Onsen. Click to enlarge.
I’m including the photo of the name of the onsen, so if anyone speaks Japanese maybe you could leave the name of the place in a comment below.
If you have a dog on a chain please seriously consider either allowing the dog to become a family member or hand the dog into an animal shelter where it will have a chance to find a family that will love it and respect it, as a family member.
Pet Court in session. Click to enlarge.
Note: the above information came directly to me from the person who photographed the dog and tried to help it, but didn’t get anywhere. In time I hope to have an update on this dog, although it is highly unlikely he will ever be let off the chain.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Photos and stories like this tear at my heart…When will humans realize they’re not the only feeling species on the planet?
Hi Gizmo, for such an advanced country with technology, sadly Japan still has a lot of improvements needed for pets and all animals. *sigh* Least we are talking about it and bringing awareness to the issues. HUGS :=o)
Woof! Woof! So sad and it seems it is an outdoor dog. We dealt with this too when were living in the island. It hurts us so much. Such irresponsible dog owners. Lots of Golden Woofs, Sugar
Hi Sugar, which island did you live on? Sure is a horrible thing to see. *sigh* At least we are talking about it and helping bring awareness to this ongoing problem. HUGS :=o)