In a unique venture that has captured online attention, a Japanese man identified as Toco on YouTube has invested $14,000 (Rs 1.2 million) in transforming himself into a dog, complete with a custom-made collie costume. Known for his YouTube channel ‘I Want To Be An Animal,’ Toco regularly shares his unconventional experiences, from dog walks to eating dog food and mastering canine tricks. However, his latest endeavor, navigating a Crufts-style agility course, faced a setback, providing a glimpse into the challenges of his immersive canine journey.
Toco’s foray into the agility course, documented in images shared on Instagram, showcases the Japanese man adorned in his meticulously crafted Collie costume. The visuals depict moments of struggle, with Toco negotiating jumps and colliding with a hurdle pole. Despite the setbacks, Toco expressed his desire to explore agility as a part of his unique canine experience.
Reactions to Toco’s agility course attempt on Instagram were varied, with some applauding his effort while others offered critiques. One viewer suggested the possibility of Toco identifying as a “Therian,” someone who spiritually or psychologically identifies as a non-human earth animal. However, not all responses were supportive, with some advising therapy and questioning the authenticity of Toco’s canine identity.
Crafted by Zeppet over a 40-day period, Toco’s custom-made Collie costume has played a significant role in realizing his dream of “becoming an animal.” The intricacy and detail of the costume add an additional layer to Toco’s unconventional journey.
Toco’s $14,000 dog transformation and subsequent agility course challenge provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of unconventional self-expression and identity exploration. As online communities react with a mix of support and skepticism, Toco’s journey continues to captivate audiences, sparking discussions about the boundaries of identity and personal expression in the digital age.