Tuba was featured here twice, once in November 2013 and again this past August. Lovely dog that he is, he was unable to find a home.

Unable, that is, until a bit of luck — a big bit of luck — came his way in the form of Kelly Ferris and her husband, Leslie Lee. The two Americans, newlyweds living in Yokohama, had wanted to adopt and, thinking an adult dog would be best for them, jumped at the opportunity to foster Tuba when his regular foster parent was away.

It was a fated moment, as the two fell in love with Tuba, now rechristened Taco. Taco "has become more relaxed and more outgoing" since moving in, says Lee.

"He loves to hang out with us, is kind, loves to play, and he is so well behaved! He never jumps on the furniture, loves belly rubs and has already learned some new tricks," says Taco's new owner proudly. "There is a reason the ARK staff nicknamed him 'the perfect gentleman!' "

Many more animals are available for adoption. Email ARK at [email protected] or call 050-1557-2763 Monday to Saturday (bilingual) for more information. Tokyo ARK is an NPO founded by Briton Elizabeth Oliver. It is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming abandoned animals. All animals are vaccinated, neutered and microchipped. Prospective owners are requested to undergo a screening process.