Abandoned? Red Poodle Found Alone on Taipei MRT's Priority Seat, Owner Located

On February 2, 2025, a red poodle was discovered alone in the designated seating area of a Taipei Metro train. The incident occurred on the Songshan-Xindian Line at around 9:50 AM, where a passenger noticed the dog left in a bag, seemingly forgotten by its owner.

The Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation (TRTC) responded to reports from passengers and simultaneously received a notification about a lost pet. The dog was later retrieved at the Qizhang Station, and the owner was fined NT$1,500 for violating regulations regarding pet transport.

Video footage captured by bystanders showed the poodle lying sideways in its bag, with two-thirds of its body visible in the designated seating area, while no sign of its owner was apparent. One passenger who boarded at Zhongshan Station reported that they observed the dog throughout their journey until reaching Dapinglin Station. Concerned for the dog's well-being, they alerted station staff before disembarking.

After the video went viral on social media, many viewers expressed concern for the dog's age and the cold weather, questioning whether it would be suitable for it to be taken to a shelter. Some speculated that the owner may have intentionally abandoned the dog, suggesting it had not been well cared for and that it was unlikely they were searching for it.

The TRTC clarified that on December 15, 2024, they received reports concerning a small dog in a blue bag left in the designated seating area of a train heading towards Xindian Station. At the same time, another report came in from Shuanglian Station regarding a lost pet. The stations coordinated to reunite the owner with their dog at Qizhang Station.

"Passengers are reminded that bringing animals onto metro premises or trains without permission can result in fines ranging from NT$1,500 to NT$7,500," stated TRTC officials.

The TRTC emphasizes that pets must be transported in appropriate carriers that prevent any part of their body from protruding and ensure no excrement or liquids escape. Failure to comply with these regulations may lead to significant fines.

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