TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A black dog was recently found on Ganyuan Street in New Taipei's Shulin District with its mouth taped shut, causing its wounds to rot down to the bone, according to a Sunday (July 21) press release.
A passerby discovered the dog and immediately contacted authorities. The dog was transported for veterinary treatment, where it was determined that its mouth had been taped shut for an extended period, leading to infection and rot, per New Taipei City Government Animal Protection and Health Inspection Office.
Veterinarians could not directly suture the dog's wounds due to their severity. Instead, they administered intravenous fluids, anti-inflammatory medications, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy to increase tissue oxygen levels and reduce swelling.
Animal Protection and Health Inspection Office veterinarian Lee Chien-pei (李建沛) noted that abused animals often develop distrust of humans. However, this dog displayed signs of affection and gratitude toward its rescuers.
The dog is recovering, and authorities said it is ready for adoption. The office is investigating the incident to identify the abuser.
The office urged the public not to use tape to muzzle or restrain dogs. This practice violates Article 6 of the Animal Protection Act, which prohibits animal harassment, abuse, or injury. Violators face up to two years in prison and a fine ranging from NT$200,000 (US$6,100) to NT$2 million.
The office encourages the public to report suspected animal abuse by calling the animal protection hotline at 1959 or the office's 24-hour rescue hotline at 02-29596353. The office emphasized the importance of creating an animal-friendly environment, raising public awareness of animal protection, and promoting animal welfare to make New Taipei a more compassionate place for animals.
