Meet Larry – born in Thailand, taken in by Niall Harbison’s Happy Doggo charity, and now living in Norwich. With Niall preparing to run The Bangkok Marathon this weekend to raise awareness and funds, Larry’s owner June share the story of this very special boy
Happy Doggo charity founder Niall Harbison rescued Larry from the streets in October 2024, describing him as one of the most gentle street dogs he had ever come across. Larry was very sick and thin and wouldn’t eat for days but, after numerous tests at the vets and even at hospital, the team realised that his problems were anxiety-related. Over the next six months, his confidence grew and he was adopted by June who lives in Norwich, in April this year
How did you come across Niall Harbison’s account – and what was it about Larry that led you to applying to adopt him?
Niall just popped up on my Instagram feed, so I followed, subscribed, and donated. Larry reminded me so much of my last dog: food issues, quiet, calm, little bit not quite there. Temperamentally they are very similar as it turns out. I think Niall wanted a quiet, patient home for Larry. A home where he is the focus and owners who were experienced dog owners.
What makes Larry so special, do you think?
He’s not a difficult dog, he’s calm and quiet, really quiet as he doesn’t bark or make any sounds really. He doesn’t know how to play and has a very stubborn streak. He will only walk where he wants to- so treats are a must on walks!
How is Larry settling into life in Norwich?
I think he has settled really well. He is highly anxious around other dogs so, now he is quite settled, I plan to work with a trainer/behaviourist to help him with this.
What advice would you give anyone thinking of adopting a dog from another country?
The adoption process was straightforward but that’s because Happy Doggo lead it. They have the connections and tell you exactly what to do. To anyone adopting from abroad I would say only adopt from a reputable charity.
Follow Larry, Niall Harbison and Happy Doggo on Instagram. Niall is planning to run The Bangkok Marathon, which starts in the early hours of Sunday morning, November 16, 2025, to raise awareness for his Happy Doggo charity as well as money for a mobile sterilizing unit with 10 staff and 2 trucks, treating 5000 dogs a year. To Donate visit Happy Doggo.
Featured images – supplied
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