TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Rescue teams have saved four people and four dogs in Hualien's Guangfu Township (光復鄉), a mountainous area in eastern Taiwan, since Wednesday (Sept. 24). The Kaohsiung Special Search and Rescue Team leads ongoing operations in the disaster-stricken region. Emergency responders continue critical life-saving efforts across the affected community.
Rescue workers discovered a mud-trapped dog near a temple at Fozu Street (佛祖街) and Chenggong Street (成功街) intersection Thursday (Sept. 25). Teams spent 30 to 40 minutes hand-digging to free the animal before transporting it to a rescue station. Cleaning revealed the mud-covered canine was actually a golden retriever beneath the black coating.
Veterinarian Huang Kai-ti (黃楷廸) diagnosed the dog with elevated body temperature, likely from aspiration pneumonia caused by prolonged mud exposure. Medical teams administered subcutaneous fluids and antibiotics to support recovery efforts. The Tainan City Special Search and Rescue Team arrived at 3 p.m. Thursday (Sept. 25) and rescued an elephantiasis patient from a mud-flooded home.
The Tainan team deployed rescue dogs to systematically search homes and ensure no residents remained trapped in the affected areas. Their methodical approach demonstrates the professionalism and humanitarian commitment that defines Taiwan's emergency response capabilities. Rescue operations continue as teams maintain vigilance across the disaster zone. ◼