People looking to welcome a pet into their lives now have a more supportive option. The Animal Protection and Health Inspection Office of the New Taipei City Government continues to promote adoption policies, encouraging residents to adopt dogs from public animal shelters. With a range of supporting measures, the process of bringing a rescued pet home is becoming easier and more reassuring. The program will continue to be promoted after mid-March to help more shelter animals find families.

Residents who adopt adult dogs from the eight public animal shelters in New Taipei City can receive the “Six Gifts for a New Home” package. The set includes a pet bed, leash, portable water bottle, pet food, feeding bowl, and raincoat. These practical items help owners prepare for a pet’s arrival. In addition, the city government has partnered with National Chung Hsing University to offer free dog behavior consultation services to new pet owners.

A successful example is “LUCY,” a dog from the Bali Animal Shelter. Seven years ago, she was found wandering in Taishan District with severe skin disease caused by mites and a body covered in ticks. After long-term care from staff and volunteers, she gradually recovered and regrew her fur. Volunteers say LUCY is friendly and learns commands quickly, making her a suitable companion dog for families.

To improve adoption success rates, New Taipei City also provides additional support for senior dogs, disabled animals, and long-term shelter residents. Benefits include lifelong medical consultation, vaccination services, and assistance with food and heartworm prevention medication. The city has also worked with Taiwan’s Administration for Digital Industries to develop an “AI Pet Adoption Matching System,” helping people find suitable pets through various search conditions.