Thank you for sharing the stories warts and all. It’s hard to understand the pressures and difficulties when you are thousands of miles away and feel the emotions but not the reality. Whatever is the outcome for Leo Messi Mr Big and the other dogs they are still better off than before and have know the love and care of you and your team. As supporters we can only give donations and comments to show our support and thanks that so many dogs are better off. Take care of your self amidst all of the many things that are happening thank you
I can barely imagine the stress you live with day and daily caring for these dogs. It never ceases to amaze me how you and Sybille and Lana and the rest of the team manage to turn these furry friends’ lives around. The changes in their physical and mental health are so apparent so quickly after you take them under your wing. You’re working miracles in Thailand and further afield, Niall. Never doubt the way you have changed and inspired lots of people as you go about your work. Your example and your love of animals has encouraged others to be proactive in animal welfare too.
I’m very excited about Tina’s hospital now! Every day a step closer to realising this dream. Keep strong, Niall but remember to look after yourself in the middle of it all ❤️
Oh Niall, Sybille, Lana, all the Happy Doggo Team— Mighty Ones all! Bless you for your ultimate dedication and perseverance!! Yes, it is very very hard. Turning wounds into beauty is the greatest work there is. All your intentions, decisions and actions are for the very best, regardless of outcome. No one can do more than that. No one. Your ‘wins’ are incredible and growing every day!! Your love (in partnership with thousands & thousands of us — here and with Tina in spirit!) meets every challenge and setback. You are never alone, your quest is a hero’s quest and we could not be more proud and grateful!! We are with you!!🥹 💛🙏🏻🌻💖
I don't understand why they send Big back immediately?! Why didn't they show some patience or understanding for how the dog must've felt at that moment...
100% agree- Mr. Big had been put through a lot of stress and unknowns. He should have been given more time. Like Niall said he was never aggressive. But everything happens for a reason- Thank goodness for Niall and team. 🐾❤️
No that is not a lot of time to settle at all. It can take months and lots of juggling of dogs around the house. Unfortunately, this is what people do. They see the sad reels and they want to help but they don’t really think about the logistics. However, being completely subjective I do remember one story that said Mr Big did not like other male dogs. So he must have shown something for them to know this. Remember we only see snippets of their week. Best of luck to Mr Big. These kind of dogs are my favourite. Big, strong, but big softies at heart! ❤️
Totally agree. They appear to have given up at the first real hurdle ☹️. Mr Big was never aggressive, he was probably stressed and out of his comfort zone. He’s been throwing much bless him ❤️
Couldn’t agree more. If you adopt a dog from conditions like this, or any rescue for that matter, I think you have to accept there is a chance you may get bitten and if you do then you work through it together with them…. They’ve said he has no signs of previous aggression so clearly he was distressed and the only way to express that distress was to lash out and try and protect himself!
To give up at the first hurdle, says a lot more about them, than poor mr big! If they did follow everything by the book, then they would’ve allowed him time to decompress before slowly introducing him to other dogs! Just imagine how scary it would be if you were taken away from your pack & thrown in with another, With nothing from Home to let you know it’s okay! Stitch all over!
That looks like a bad bite. I don't know how/why it happened but trust between animal and owner is vital. Maybe it was too much too fast? As another follower shared, maybe rehoming in time with no other dogs could be possible?
I think this and the comments in the replies about them ‘giving up at the first hurdle’ etc are unfair and judgemental. We don’t have all of the details and they aren’t obliged to share everything online. Niall clearly says the owners did everything right. Why not trust his insight on this.
I didn't say they did anything wrong to cause the dog to bite. only that they could've been more understanding of the dog in stead of sending it back immediately.
Niall has just posted: “Nobody did anything wrong but sadly I suggested it was best Mr Big came back immediately to us. It was heart breaking for all involved.” It shows that we don’t always get all the details. That’s really the reason why I thought it was best not to assume anything when I saw a lot of posters agreeing with you. Can’t have been nice for them or Niall to read the criticism when they were all putting the dog first. Anyway, it’s a story with a fairytale ending so Niall’s decision to bring him back was the right one!
Helen, I don't like how you seem to be making me out as some kind of a angry critical person; I asked 2 questions because to me it didn't seem the situation was well explained to the readers.
Also the way the dog eventually found the way to his real owners has nothing to do with the bringing back option being the right one, it is pure luck, and the fact that they need to get their Thai social media presence up (as explained by NIall himself). That last thing would probably even have avoided the 600 km trip after all.
I don’t think you sound angry at all. But it looks like you criticised the owners for giving up because you asked why didn’t they show some patience or understanding. Others replied agreeing, two saying they gave up at the first hurdle, one saying ‘it says a lot about them.’ I thought we didn’t have the facts anbd that it was starting to become a bit judgemental. And that’s all I said. I won’t reply to any more on this just because I think we all want to keep it positive on here and it derails the chat!
Such a shame about Mr Big… maybe too much too soon, he needed to decompress after his journey and new surroundings. Keeping him separate for the other house dogs. He would probably thrive as an only dog.
Your commitment to these dogs is there for all to see, sometimes 3 steps forward and 2 back, but so many positives, you surely make a difference to these beautiful souls and make the world a better place,
Life is full of ups and downs and the ups certainly outweigh the downs. So sad for Mr Big, let's hope when he settles back down you can think about possibly finding him a new home with no other animals. The work you all do is phenomenal so never doubt yourself. Sending prayers for Leo Messi. Stay strong and positive
Thank you Niall for your update. Crikey what a week you've had. Such a shame about Mr B. Your strength is always being tested and what you achieve is miraculous. Thank goodness you have some very special people to help with the daily life at HDL. So glad Tina's Hospital is moving quickly now. I hope Leo will be ok 🙏
I appreciate seeing the downs as well as the ups. It shows me why the bigger picture of sterilisation and education is so important (rather than doing nothing about that and just having a massive dog shelter bursting at the seams) because with the former, there are simply fewer dogs experiencing the lows. I had no idea that the problem was this bad until I started following you. It’s been an eye-opener. Amazing work, Team Happy Doggo!
I also thank you for taking the time to share updates with us. I don't know about anybody else (and hopefully you see this ) but i never doubt your decisions. I will never have a negative comment to anything you or your team do. I KNOW you always have the dogs best interest at heart and do whatever is right. I know how hard it may be , but know that you and your team make a huge difference.
Our hearts go out to you Niall. You are truly inspirational. Those of us who support you and donate when we can, know that each and every day, you make a massive difference to the lives of many dogs. Sadly, not everything will go right each and every day. Sometimes the choices you have to make will be difficult, and the journeys are long and the road is rocky, but we all know that you will always do the best for the dogs. Please look after your own mental health too. Sometimes the bad things can overwhelm us, but as you rightly said, you have achieved so much, and will continue to do so.
Future adoptions the families could bring their other pets to the land to meet Mr Big first. I’m so sad these owners gave up on him so quickly. Clearly they were not the right match for our Big Guy!
Dear Niall, step by step. Thanks for sharing your life over there. I‘m so sorry about the 3 dogs and keep you all in my thoughts as well. Hold on, Niall, you’re doing a great job!!
Thank you for sharing the stories warts and all. It’s hard to understand the pressures and difficulties when you are thousands of miles away and feel the emotions but not the reality. Whatever is the outcome for Leo Messi Mr Big and the other dogs they are still better off than before and have know the love and care of you and your team. As supporters we can only give donations and comments to show our support and thanks that so many dogs are better off. Take care of your self amidst all of the many things that are happening thank you
I can barely imagine the stress you live with day and daily caring for these dogs. It never ceases to amaze me how you and Sybille and Lana and the rest of the team manage to turn these furry friends’ lives around. The changes in their physical and mental health are so apparent so quickly after you take them under your wing. You’re working miracles in Thailand and further afield, Niall. Never doubt the way you have changed and inspired lots of people as you go about your work. Your example and your love of animals has encouraged others to be proactive in animal welfare too.
I’m very excited about Tina’s hospital now! Every day a step closer to realising this dream. Keep strong, Niall but remember to look after yourself in the middle of it all ❤️
Oh Niall, Sybille, Lana, all the Happy Doggo Team— Mighty Ones all! Bless you for your ultimate dedication and perseverance!! Yes, it is very very hard. Turning wounds into beauty is the greatest work there is. All your intentions, decisions and actions are for the very best, regardless of outcome. No one can do more than that. No one. Your ‘wins’ are incredible and growing every day!! Your love (in partnership with thousands & thousands of us — here and with Tina in spirit!) meets every challenge and setback. You are never alone, your quest is a hero’s quest and we could not be more proud and grateful!! We are with you!!🥹 💛🙏🏻🌻💖
What a great comment - as a devoted follower, I thank you.
I don't understand why they send Big back immediately?! Why didn't they show some patience or understanding for how the dog must've felt at that moment...
100% agree- Mr. Big had been put through a lot of stress and unknowns. He should have been given more time. Like Niall said he was never aggressive. But everything happens for a reason- Thank goodness for Niall and team. 🐾❤️
When you think what he has been through he didn’t really have a lot of time to settle in
No that is not a lot of time to settle at all. It can take months and lots of juggling of dogs around the house. Unfortunately, this is what people do. They see the sad reels and they want to help but they don’t really think about the logistics. However, being completely subjective I do remember one story that said Mr Big did not like other male dogs. So he must have shown something for them to know this. Remember we only see snippets of their week. Best of luck to Mr Big. These kind of dogs are my favourite. Big, strong, but big softies at heart! ❤️
It’s Hank that doesn’t do well with male dogs. Mr Big is a love bug
Totally agree. They appear to have given up at the first real hurdle ☹️. Mr Big was never aggressive, he was probably stressed and out of his comfort zone. He’s been throwing much bless him ❤️
Through so much
Couldn’t agree more. If you adopt a dog from conditions like this, or any rescue for that matter, I think you have to accept there is a chance you may get bitten and if you do then you work through it together with them…. They’ve said he has no signs of previous aggression so clearly he was distressed and the only way to express that distress was to lash out and try and protect himself!
To give up at the first hurdle, says a lot more about them, than poor mr big! If they did follow everything by the book, then they would’ve allowed him time to decompress before slowly introducing him to other dogs! Just imagine how scary it would be if you were taken away from your pack & thrown in with another, With nothing from Home to let you know it’s okay! Stitch all over!
That looks like a bad bite. I don't know how/why it happened but trust between animal and owner is vital. Maybe it was too much too fast? As another follower shared, maybe rehoming in time with no other dogs could be possible?
I think this and the comments in the replies about them ‘giving up at the first hurdle’ etc are unfair and judgemental. We don’t have all of the details and they aren’t obliged to share everything online. Niall clearly says the owners did everything right. Why not trust his insight on this.
I didn't say they did anything wrong to cause the dog to bite. only that they could've been more understanding of the dog in stead of sending it back immediately.
Niall has just posted: “Nobody did anything wrong but sadly I suggested it was best Mr Big came back immediately to us. It was heart breaking for all involved.” It shows that we don’t always get all the details. That’s really the reason why I thought it was best not to assume anything when I saw a lot of posters agreeing with you. Can’t have been nice for them or Niall to read the criticism when they were all putting the dog first. Anyway, it’s a story with a fairytale ending so Niall’s decision to bring him back was the right one!
Helen, I don't like how you seem to be making me out as some kind of a angry critical person; I asked 2 questions because to me it didn't seem the situation was well explained to the readers.
Also the way the dog eventually found the way to his real owners has nothing to do with the bringing back option being the right one, it is pure luck, and the fact that they need to get their Thai social media presence up (as explained by NIall himself). That last thing would probably even have avoided the 600 km trip after all.
I don’t think you sound angry at all. But it looks like you criticised the owners for giving up because you asked why didn’t they show some patience or understanding. Others replied agreeing, two saying they gave up at the first hurdle, one saying ‘it says a lot about them.’ I thought we didn’t have the facts anbd that it was starting to become a bit judgemental. And that’s all I said. I won’t reply to any more on this just because I think we all want to keep it positive on here and it derails the chat!
I think you sound too judgemental, als in the way how you say "I want to keep it positive" as in; you guys aren't!
Exactly because we didn't have all the facts I asked these questions.
Niall, the world is a better place because you are in it. Thank you for all that you and your crew are doing!
Such a shame about Mr Big… maybe too much too soon, he needed to decompress after his journey and new surroundings. Keeping him separate for the other house dogs. He would probably thrive as an only dog.
Your commitment to these dogs is there for all to see, sometimes 3 steps forward and 2 back, but so many positives, you surely make a difference to these beautiful souls and make the world a better place,
Tysvm for everything you do xx🙏🏻💚🐶
Totally agree he needed time to decompress. Such a shame he must be so stressed now 😞
Life is full of ups and downs and the ups certainly outweigh the downs. So sad for Mr Big, let's hope when he settles back down you can think about possibly finding him a new home with no other animals. The work you all do is phenomenal so never doubt yourself. Sending prayers for Leo Messi. Stay strong and positive
Thank you Niall for your update. Crikey what a week you've had. Such a shame about Mr B. Your strength is always being tested and what you achieve is miraculous. Thank goodness you have some very special people to help with the daily life at HDL. So glad Tina's Hospital is moving quickly now. I hope Leo will be ok 🙏
Huge love and thanks to you all. Vx😚♥️
I would retire tomorrow and give you a hand! Just say the word! I will pay my own way, dave37297@yahoo.com
Please hang in there. You all are AMAZING! and we love you all and the work and love you give to each and every one of these dogs. ❤️
I appreciate seeing the downs as well as the ups. It shows me why the bigger picture of sterilisation and education is so important (rather than doing nothing about that and just having a massive dog shelter bursting at the seams) because with the former, there are simply fewer dogs experiencing the lows. I had no idea that the problem was this bad until I started following you. It’s been an eye-opener. Amazing work, Team Happy Doggo!
I also thank you for taking the time to share updates with us. I don't know about anybody else (and hopefully you see this ) but i never doubt your decisions. I will never have a negative comment to anything you or your team do. I KNOW you always have the dogs best interest at heart and do whatever is right. I know how hard it may be , but know that you and your team make a huge difference.
Fingers, toes and Dexter's claws crossed for Leo, he really has had a tough few days and deserves to be happy and pain free.
Such a shame to see Mr Big back, but these things happen
Our hearts go out to you Niall. You are truly inspirational. Those of us who support you and donate when we can, know that each and every day, you make a massive difference to the lives of many dogs. Sadly, not everything will go right each and every day. Sometimes the choices you have to make will be difficult, and the journeys are long and the road is rocky, but we all know that you will always do the best for the dogs. Please look after your own mental health too. Sometimes the bad things can overwhelm us, but as you rightly said, you have achieved so much, and will continue to do so.
This is so disappointing. Maybe for
Future adoptions the families could bring their other pets to the land to meet Mr Big first. I’m so sad these owners gave up on him so quickly. Clearly they were not the right match for our Big Guy!
Dear Niall, step by step. Thanks for sharing your life over there. I‘m so sorry about the 3 dogs and keep you all in my thoughts as well. Hold on, Niall, you’re doing a great job!!