Locals first spotted Haroti wandering near woodland in Gaj, a small village in Wyszkow County, Poland. He clearly needed help.
But unfortunately for Hatori, he doesn't look like the most approachable pooch, especially for people who get a little nervous around dogs.
More wolf than dog
With his giant head, imposing frame, and thick fur, Haroti looked more like a wolf than a dog. And how he howled at passersby didn't exactly soften his 'image.' If only they knew that Haroti was calling out for help.
But one person in the village saw beyond Hatori's tough exterior. His name is Mariusz Grzegorz. Mariusz didn't see a big scary wolf dog. Instead, he saw a lonely and scared pooch who needed someone to take a chance on him.
Mariusz spent weeks visiting the woodlands, slowly winning Katori's trust and affection. But it wasn't easy. Katori had had some bad experiences with humans in the past.
"He wasn't a threat to anyone," said Mariusz. "When I started to get closer to him, I realised he was terrified of people. He couldn't even make eye contact and shook with absolute terror when I got too close. It was heartbreaking. But he never ran off, though, which made me think he was interested and wanted help. So I stayed and kept coming back. I was never going to leave him out there."
Mariusz's persistence paid off. Eventually, he had the wolf-dog eating out of his hand like a puppy. A visit to the vet came next. Then it was time for the real test.
How would Hatori fit in with the rest of Mariusz's furry family? Mariusz and his wife had another dog and three cats.
The newest member of the pack
It took time for Hatori to adjust to domestic life. But after a few months of working with an animal behaviourist, Hatori realised cats aren't for chasing but cuddling and that having a dog brother is the best thing in the world.
"I come home from work and there he is," says Mariusz. "Cuddled up on the sofa with the cats and our other dog. He looks so happy and content."
