The family took Appa into their home. He was very quiet and kept his eyes closed most of the time. He wasn't grooming himself for a few days and showed no interest in playing.

"He was barely moving from his spot. However, he accepted pets and purred when he was given attention."

Appa seemed exhausted after surviving the streets. "We tried to cheer him up and gave him massages and even got him a comb that he really enjoyed."

With safety, comfort and plenty of reassurance, he started to seek affection from people.