Dog lovers know that adopting a canine companion changes your life forever. Misconceptions about adopting a shelter pet are common, but in some cases these adopted dogs not only change lives…they save them! You simply can’t miss these amazing stories of rescue and relationships.
How long does it take to become forever friends? For Nolan and Gracie, apparently less than 47 seconds.
Nolan’s delicate touch and instant hug are endearing beyond words. For families, there’s always that question with pet adoptions: How well will the children connect with the canine? In the story of loving dog Duke, he knew the family well enough to help save their 9-month-old baby’s life.
Rescue is a two-way street
When we think of pet adoption as saving a life, our default is that the human is doing the rescuing. Three-legged Layka may have been a rescue, but only after this combat dog saved the life of Staff Sgt. Julian McDonald and his unit.
We imagine ambulance drivers saving human lives, but when driver Norine Hoch found an emaciated pit bull in Buffalo while making her rounds, she couldn’t resist adopting the dog after little Metro was nursed back to health.
Mangy and lethargic husky Miley was literally found on a trash heap by Hope for Paws. The video of her recovery went viral and over 500 applications came in for adoption. Toni Bua provided Miley her new family in this welcome home video.
Special friends, special needs
Friendship between a human and dog always involves a unique chemistry and relationship, but sometimes there are some extraordinary pairings that go beyond our expectations. Three-year-old Rosie the pit bull needed special attention at this shelter in Nebraska because she was deaf, and the perfect person came along to give this intelligent animal an understanding home.
Xena the Warrior Puppy made headlines when the abused dog beat the odds, survived a grueling ordeal, and found a home with the Hickey family. They describe the impact on their autistic son Jonny as nothing short of miraculous. Xena even has her own Facebook Page.
Is it your turn?
Maybe you’ve been considering adopting a dog, or maybe inspiring stories like these leave you with curiosity, questions, or concerns. Here are some resources about canine adoption to help get you started.
The Shelter Project is a great site that not only provides a search feature by your zip code, but even more inspiring adoption stories.
The Humane Society has solid resources on adopting a puppy mill dog.
This last video is a primer for some preliminary steps on your adoption journey. Soon, you’ll have your own inspiring story to share!
Top image via Flickr/ Daniel & Sharon Burka