Texas Dog On Euthanasia List Wins Hearts With His Hugs And Gets A Second Chance
It’s a tough reality that the crowded shelters aren’t the fault of the adorable pets inside. Each wagging tail and hopeful look belongs to a sweet animal yearning for a home, a cozy bed, and a person to give them endless love.
Tanner was one of those stray dogs, trying to survive on the tough streets of Houston, Texas.
Every day, he silently wished and looked at the faces of people passing by, hoping to find that one person who would finally see him, recognize his worth, and give him a chance.
And that moment eventually came! Tanner was rescued and taken to a local shelter, a safe haven, but also a place where time can cruelly run out.
Soon after he arrived, the shelter staff realized something special about this lovely dog. From the start, Tanner had a strong desire for his forever family.
He watched as other dogs left with their new owners, while he stayed behind. Three long weeks passed, feeling like forever in shelter time, and sadly, no one came for Tanner.
In the harsh reality of an overcrowded shelter, tough choices have to be made, and tragically, Tanner’s name ended up on the euthanasia list.
Luckily, that’s when Madeline Garvis Smith, a passionate dog lover with a huge heart, came along.
When she met Tanner, she was instantly drawn to his loving spirit. Instead of barking or acting wild, Tanner showed his gentle side by wrapping his paws around Madeline, giving her a warm hug.
In that moment, Madeline felt her heart soften. As she shared in an interview:
“He was pure love; almost starved for attention. Putting him back in his kennel was the hardest part, because I knew he was just so lonely. I meet a lot of dogs, but some just pull on your heartstrings more than others. Tanner was one of them.”
Madeline knew she would do whatever it took to save Tanner. So, she quickly shared Tanner’s story on her Instagram account, which she uses to help shelter dogs.
She described him as the ‘cutest love bug’ who just wanted a chance and a loving hand to help him find a better future.
Madeline’s request for a local foster home struck a chord with Kari, a kind-hearted person who eagerly opened her home to give Tanner a safe place to stay.
As he got ready to start this new journey, he seemed to appreciate the kindness of the shelter staff. He gave them gentle hugs, silently thanking them for their care during his short time there.
When he stepped outside with his foster mom, Tanner visibly transformed. His tail, which had probably been drooping with worry, began to wag with joy.
As soon as he jumped into the car with Kari, she couldn’t help but give him a sweet kiss! When they finally reached his foster home, Tanner was a little shy, which is totally normal for a new place.
But, it didn’t take long for him to feel the real love and care around him. He quickly bonded with his foster family, eagerly looking for pets and soaking up all the affection they generously gave.
Now, Tanner’s next chapter is equally filled with hope. He is about to move to the Animal Rescue Network, where he will stay in foster care until he finds his forever home.
Everyone is optimistic that this sweet dog, who has so much love to share, will soon meet the perfect family that will appreciate his warm hugs every day. And I do too, he truly deserves it!
