Chewbacca the Golden Retriever has had a difficult start to his life – not that you would know from his infectious smile and loving nature. The sweet dog spent the first five years of his life on a dog farm in South Korea, and he only had the most basic necessities when The Humane Society arrived on the scene.
Heart-breakingly, Chewbacca wasn’t the only dog at the farm – and some were living in even worse conditions than his.
Chewbacca’s pen was small and dirty, and he had no companionship or source of attention. The farm that he lived at often slaughtered dogs so that the meat could be sold on, and it was incredibly lucky that Chewbacca managed to live there for 5 years without meeting the fate of so many other dogs.
But in a world where dogs are largely viewed as pets, why is there still such a demand for dog meat in South Korea?
According to The Humane Society, “While the majority of South Koreans don’t routinely eat dog meat, the “right” for others to do so is still strongly felt.”
“Dog meat is mostly eaten by older, male citizens who have the misguided belief that it is beneficial for health when consumed either as a soup —which is believed by some to invigorate the blood and reduce lethargy—or as a tonic, which is sold in traditional medicine shops.”
Thankfully, the Humane society wasted no time in shutting down the farm that Chewbacca lived at, along with 15 others throughout South Korea- saving over 2,000 dogs in total. The dogs could now travel to the US to start a better life, and Chewbacca had already had a profound effect on somebody in particular.
Jeffrey Flocken is the president of the Humane Society, and as soon as he laid eyes on Chewbacca, he knew that the sweet dog would make a great addition to his family.
“People are amazed when they learn where Chewbacca has come from- that such a loving and beautiful dog could have such a hard start to his life, really surprises everyone,” Jeffrey said. “Chewbacca witnessed the worst treatment that dogs could possible have, and yet he still manages to love people.”
Chewbacca soon fitted into Jeffrey’s family, and he enjoys going for walks with Jeffrey, his wife, and his daughter, as well as taking trips to a local coffee shop for a cup of whipped cream.
It’s a far cry from the life of loneliness, neglect, and sorrow that he lived in South Korea, and it’s truly amazing that despite all of the mistreatment, he still remained a kind and loving dog.
“He’s part of our family now, and is able to move on and be a beautiful, healthy dog,” Jeffery said.
It’s incredible how much Chewbacca’s life has changed since the farm, and it’s all thanks to the amazing work of the Humane Society. Scroll down to watch Chewbacca’s story in a special video dedicated to him.
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
