Zigo is a now 4-years old Husky, who is now more Japanese than we are. But his story is a little unusual…

In 2010 was a year of large floods in Poland. For some time Krakow’s animal shelter was threatened by it, and people were asked to take care of some of it’s pets for at least few days until the danger is over. The response was great, by the time we arrived there with Marta there were no animals left.

What’s the connection with Zigo? Well, this event made us consider adopting a pet from the shelter. Some time later, we visited the shelter looking for the right companion. At that time Marta spotted that handsome husky, sitting proudly in his cage. The decision was made, Marta’s mind was set, and so few days later he moved to our apartment. We were told by staff, that the previous owner had to give him up when he moved. At that time we haven’t thought about it much, but soon this become a strange twist of fate…

It was great autumn and winter we spend together, but soon the unexpected come: Marta’s contract at Hokkaido University. Japan, so far and so different. Should we leave Zigo behind, or should we take him with us? It was difficult decision, our families were ready to take care of him, but he already had to cope with changing families once, can we force him do live through this again? So the decision was made: he goes with us. And so he arrived in Japan in June 2011.

While having a large dog is difficult in Japan, we don’t regret this decision. He keeps our spirits up, always ready for a walk or a small (or large) trip. He is also great ice breaker in contact with people. Many people are a little scared when they see a foreigner, but when they see a beautiful husky they often forget about it for long enough to start some simple conversation. And often it turns out that those strange people from overseas are not so strange at all. Especially when accompanied with such a handsome companion.