Heartwarming update after viral clip of corgi outraged the nation

A heartwarming update has emerged after a clip of a small dog trapped on an apartment balcony went viral last week.

A heartwarming update has emerged after a distressing clip of a dog trapped on a Melbourne apartment balcony went viral last week.

The footage – filmed by a neighbour over three months – showed a small corgi anxiously pacing on an exposed 1.5 metre balcony, day and night.

One end of the balcony housed a very simple wooden kennel with no bedding or protection from the winter elements.

“I’ve seen him spin on that tiny balcony floor endlessly — a heartbreaking sign of anxiety and psychological distress,” neighbour Helia Abdhollah said.

Earlier this week, distressing footage of the dog emerged. Picture: TikTok/Heliabdollahi

The dog longingly waited at the door for his owner. Picture: TikTok/heliabdollahi

“I’ve seen his tail wag when the owner comes out, desperately trying to connect. But the owner doesn’t even acknowledge him. Doesn’t pet him. Doesn’t let him inside. The corgi literally hesitates to step over the threshold, like he’s been conditioned to know he’s not allowed inside his own home.

“This is emotional abuse, and it’s completely preventable. Melbourne is freezing right now — I can barely handle the cold inside my apartment. I can’t even imagine how this small dog is surviving out there night after night,” she added.

The clip, which was viewed over 170,000 times, outraged Australians with many branding it “inhumane.”

News.com.au revealed last week that the 16-month-old corgi ‘Harry’ – who previously went by the name ‘Trump’ – had been surrendered by his owner to council, after they mutually agreed it was the right decision.

The Facebook post said Harry is "dog-friendly (best matched with another exuberant, well-matched dog), could happily live in a home with another dog, with cats, and with children over the age of 5." Picture: Facebook

Lost Dogs’ Home posted on Facebook on Friday saying they expected “a high number of applications” for Harry and requested patience while the applications were being worked through.

“Harry (formerly known as Trump) is a dog whose story touched hearts everywhere. After being left alone for months on a balcony in filthy, lonely conditions with minimal human contact, Harry came into care frightened, confused, and unsure how to be a dog. He’s looking for the special person or family who can help him continue his journey toward a happy, secure life,” the post read.

“Harry is a bouncy, energetic boy who loves to chase a ball, play with soft toys, and soak up human attention when he feels comfortable. He’s not particularly food motivated, but his enthusiasm for play and people shines through once he feels safe.

“It’s important to understand Harry will need ongoing behavioural rehabilitation, and his new family must be prepared for the challenges – and the rewards – of helping him heal. He deserves a home that sees his potential and is willing to work with him every step of the way.”

Harry's adoption fee includes mandatory, ongoing behaviour training sessions and a consultation with Lost Dogs Home's Behaviour Vet. Picture: Supplied

In a statement, Acting Lord Mayor Roshena Campbell told news.com.au that Melbourne City council had picked the dog up on the morning of the 11th.

“Thanks to the kindness of a good Samaritan, a little corgi has a new lease on life – with a future filled with head pats, long walks, and plenty of treats.

“We take responsible pet ownership seriously – and while our team works tirelessly to protect the welfare of animals, we also rely on our community to speak up when something isn’t right.

“Every pet deserves a safe and loving environment, and we’ll now work to find this pup a forever family,” she said.

Mel McCarthy, Service Delivery and Local Government Manager at The Lost Dogs’ Home told news.com.au that he is being “very well looked after.”

“This little corgi is being well looked after and will no doubt find a new home very soon.

“With the right time commitment and training it is completely possible for people to own a dog happily in the city. Please reach out if you are struggling, our behaviour team can offer advice on how to successfully manage a dog in an apartment.”

Harry is 16 months old and 14 kgs (with a LOT of fluff). Picture: Supplied

Facebook users took to the Lost Dogs Home Facebook post to express their happiness that Harry was on his way to finding a new home.

Jo Mez said “so glad he is safe now & hopefully in a loving home soon. A shame we have such inadequate animal welfare laws. The owner should have been charged”.

Colleen Chin added “someone should lock his previous owner out on a tiny balcony with no shelter or human interaction in filthy conditions and see how he likes it.”

Samantha Durning said “I’m so pleased he has been saved! I can’t believe he was left out there. Thank goodness for TikTok. Harry, I know you’ll find your forever home who will take great care of you.”

The post has amassed 240 shares and over 1400 likes and reacts.

The apartment complex where the dog was found is a skyscraper in Melbourne’s CBD where apartments range from $700-900 per week.

With over 633 apartments over 65 levels, the complex features “5-star facilities” – including an outdoor pool, spa and sauna area as well as a substantial gym, each with city views.

The application form for Harry’s adoption can be found here.