Meet Bandit: A Good Boy With a Big Heart
When we first met Bandit, he was standing alone on Marine Drive in Lautoka, Hairless, severely underweight, and visibly defeated, Bandit had clearly been struggling for a long time. His skin was inflamed and crusted from mange, a painful and highly uncomfortable skin condition that had left him completely bald. Many of his teeth were missing, and his ribs were visible through his fragile frame. But what struck us most wasn’t just his physical condition—it was his demeanor. He seemed like he had given up.
Bandit in August, Lautoka
Bandit the first day he was spotted in Marine Drive, Lautoka.
Still, there was something in his eyes that told us he wasn’t a street dog. Bandit appeared familiar with people. He wasn’t afraid to approach, and he seemed to understand that humans were capable of kindness. Given he had never been seen in the area before, our team suspected he had been abandoned—likely because of his deteriorating health. While we can’t say for sure, abandonment in poor health is a common and heartbreaking practice here in Fiji.
Bandit on his way to work.
Despite all he’d been through, Bandit was gentle and friendly. He began approaching our team members when they stopped by to leave food, and over the next few days, trust began to form. Eventually, with quiet reassurance and patience, one of our team members was able to carefully lift him into a crate and transport him to PASH.
That trip marked the start of Bandit’s road to recovery.
At the shelter, Bandit received the veterinary care he so desperately needed. Our team treated his mange, addressed his skin infections, and helped him regain his strength. While his dental issues are permanent—he’s lost many of his teeth—Bandit manages just fine on a soft-food diet. With time, his hair began to grow back in soft patches, and more importantly, his spirit returned.
Bandit on his way to recovery
Bandit started to enjoy walks again. His tail wagged freely. He sought out cuddles and soaked up attention from staff and volunteers. The sad, silent dog we rescued slowly became a joyful, affectionate companion. His eyes, once dull and hopeless, now light up whenever someone enters the room.
Bandit is an older dog, and while he may not have decades ahead of him, what he truly needs now is a safe, loving home for his golden years. He thrives in the company of humans and gets along well with other dogs. He doesn’t need much—just a warm bed, soft meals, kind words, and someone to show him he’ll never be forgotten again.
If you’ve been looking for a loyal, gentle companion with a heart full of love and resilience, Bandit is waiting for you.
Visit him at PASH or apply online to adopt this incredible boy and be part of his beautiful second chance.
Bandit after receiving the treatment he deserved from the PASH team.