Five-month-old Volauvent was found in a temple where locals often shamelessly abandon their dogs. A right mix of breeds, she'll likely be a big dog when full-grown. She may have some Shiba in her, maybe some Kishu, and a bit of something else. What Volauvent doesn't have is anything in common with the savory puff pastry from which her name derives. There is, however, something of its literal meaning — "flight on the wind" — about her. Vol is very timid or, more accurately, very shy. If she thinks she's being watched, she'll stay in hiding, but if she thinks no one is looking, she'll tiptoe out and play with her toys. Toys are one of her true loves. The other is other dogs. Volauvent is beginning to trust her foster family, who have found that playing with other dogs in front of her is almost sure to bring her out, in a throw-all-cares-to-the-wind courageous burst of bliss.

If you are interested in adopting Volauvent, 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.