A corgi has been surrendered and is now in the care of Melbourne's Lost Dogs' home after a TikToker shared a video sparking concern for its welfare.
Footage posted to TikTok in late June appeared to show the "trapped" corgi living on a cramped, exposed balcony in Melbourne's CBD, allegedly for a period of three months.
The person who shared the video claimed the dog spent hours pacing in circles — a behaviour they described as a "heartbreaking sign of anxiety and psychological distress".
"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.
The video sparked widespread concern on the internet, with the poster saying they had contacted the RSPCA, EQ Tower building management, Victoria Police, and multiple animal rescue organisations.
They were later contacted by the City of Melbourne, which said it would reach out to the owner.
Corgi has 'new lease on life'
On Friday, a spokesperson for the City of Melbourne confirmed its animal management team had worked with the owner, who ultimately decided to surrender the dog, acknowledging a different environment would better support the animal's welfare.
The corgi is now undergoing medical checks at The Lost Dogs' Home in north Melbourne and is not yet available for adoption.
Acting lord mayor Roshena Campbell thanked the community for speaking up.
"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 said in a statement.
"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.
"Every pet deserves a safe and loving environment, and we'll now work to find this pup a forever family."
The City of Melbourne said the 16-month-old corgi now has a "new lease on life" after being surrendered by its owners. Source: Supplied / City of Melbourne
"This little corgi is being well looked after and will no doubt find a new home very soon," McCarthy said.
"With the right time commitment and training, it is completely possible for people to own a dog happily in the city.
"Please reach out if you are struggling, our behaviour team can offer advice on how to successfully manage a dog in an apartment."
The original poster said the video was not about "hate or shame", instead arguing it was "about advocating for a better life for this dog without cruelty or blame".
