The man, known as Toco, posted a video of him wearing a dog costume on his YouTube channel last month. - SCREENGRAB FROM YOUTUBE/ I WANT TO BE AN ANIMAL
TOKYO (The Straits TImes/Asia News Network): A Japanese man who spent 2 million yen (US$15,000) on a realistic dog costume to achieve his dream of living like a rough collie has got a cage to fulfil his canine fantasy.
The man, known as Toco, posted a video on his YouTube channel last month, which showed him settling into a black cage in a room and pawing at the bars before the lights were turned off.
India Times reported that rather than having free rein of the house, Toco is locked in a cage for the night.
The video footage also shows him getting belly rubs, being put on a leash for a walk, and offering a toy in exchange for head scratches.
The video has chalked up nearly 130,000 views, with Toco receiving messages of support from fans.
One fan said: “I got sad when you were put in the crate, but then I saw you got tummy rubs and a walk, so everything is okay.”
Others, however were curious about how other dogs will react to Toco in his dog suit.
One Emile Francais wrote: “All you have to do now is set up a meeting with one of your own (dogs)! I can’t wait to see how your canine friend reacts.”
Last year, Toco posted a video on his channel showing him wearing the life-like costume and going through the motions of being a dog.
He had previously said he specifically chose a rough collie costume because it was the most realistic and its long hair can “mislead the human figure.” Collies also happen to be Toco’s favourite dog breed.
His YouTube channel has videos of him living the doggo life, from playing fetch, going for walks, snuggling with stuffed animals to eating kibbles.
