TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Saturday (Aug. 17) announced that he had adopted a rescued and disabled dog.

Lai chose Saturday, International Homeless Animals' Day, to announce on Facebook and X that he recently adopted a stray named “Ban Ban” (斑斑). Former President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) commented to congratulate him, writing, "Thank you, Ching-te, for giving a furry child a home, and congratulations to Ban-Ban on getting a dad with a middle part hairstyle." 

Lai humorously replied, “I don't really have that much of a middle part” and said it was a joy to have a new member in the family. He said he recently held a housewarming party for Ban Ban.

Lai revealed that Ban Ban's left front leg had to be amputated due to a trap injury. Although walking is difficult for the dog, it is friendly to strangers, Lai said. 

Lai said he first saw Ban Ban at the inauguration ceremony of the Pingtung County stray animal shelter in June. "As soon as I saw him, I knew I wanted to bring him home," said Lai. 

Lai also said that organizations have promoted “adopt, don’t shop” and “adoption without abandonment.” He believes this is not only an important concept, but also a life-changing action.