Corgi Rescued From Melbourne Balcony After Viral TikTok Raises Welfare Concerns
A 16-month-old corgi is now safe in the care of Melbourne’s Lost Dogs’ Home after a video circulated on TikTok sparked widespread concern for its well-being. The footage, posted in late June, appeared to show the dog living in cramped conditions on a balcony in Melbourne’s central business district.
Community Action Leads to Rescue
The video quickly gained attention online, with viewers expressing distress over the dog’s apparent isolation and anxiety. According to the original poster, the corgi spent hours pacing in circles, a behavior they described as a “heartbreaking sign of anxiety and psychological distress.” The poster shared that they had contacted numerous organizations, including the RSPCA, building management at the EQ Tower, Victoria Police, and several animal rescue groups.
“I’ve seen his tail wag when the owner comes out, desperately trying to connect. But the owner doesn’t even acknowledge him,” the poster wrote in their online account.
The City of Melbourne subsequently intervened, contacting the dog’s owner. On Friday, a spokesperson for the city confirmed that its animal management team worked with the owner, who ultimately surrendered the dog, recognizing that a different environment would better suit its needs.
A “New Lease on Life” for the Young Corgi
The corgi is currently undergoing medical evaluations at The Lost Dogs’ Home in North Melbourne and is not yet available for adoption. Acting lord mayor Roshena Campbell praised the community’s response, stating, “Thanks to the kindness of a good samaritan, a little corgi has a new lease on life — with a future filled with head pats, long walks, and plenty of treats.”
Campbell emphasized the city’s commitment to responsible pet ownership. “We take responsible pet ownership seriously — and while our team works tirelessly to protect the welfare of animals, we also rely on our community to speak up when something isn’t right,” she said. “Every pet deserves a safe and loving environment, and we’ll now work to find this pup a forever family.”
Experts Weigh In on Urban Pet Ownership
Mel McCarthy, service delivery and local government manager at The Lost Dogs’ Home, assured the public that the corgi is receiving excellent care. “This little corgi is being well looked after and will no doubt find a new home very soon,” McCarthy said.
McCarthy also highlighted the possibility of successful pet ownership in urban environments, adding, “With the right time commitment and training, it is completely possible for people to own a dog happily in the city.” She encouraged individuals struggling to care for their pets to seek support, noting that the organization’s behavior team can provide guidance on managing dogs in apartment settings.
The original poster clarified that their intention was not to assign blame, but rather to advocate for the dog’s well-being. “The video was not about hate or shame,” they stated, “instead arguing it was about advocating for a better life for this dog without cruelty or blame.”
