The Most Incredible Dog Rescue Videos for National Rescue Dog Day

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Heartwarming dog stories for National Rescue Dog Day

Reader’s Digest is famous for highlighting the Nicest Places in America and selecting our top feel-good videos each month. But did you know we’re also passionate about pets? For National Rescue Dog Day, celebrated annually on May 20, we partnered with The Pet Collective to find and share five heartwarming rescue dog stories that will melt your heart.

So, what exactly is National Rescue Dog Day? It’s a special day dedicated to raising awareness about the many wonderful dogs in shelters nationwide who are waiting for a second chance at a loving home. Founded in 2018 by Lisa Wiehebrink, a children’s book author and Executive Director of Tails That Teach, the day aims to promote the humane treatment of pets. In fact, Wiehebrink was inspired by her own rescue dog Cooper, who was saved from a Los Angeles shelter as a puppy in 2009 after being found in a vacant lot.

So, whether you’re already the proud owner of a shelter dog, considering adopting one or just love heartwarming rescue stories, join us in celebrating National Rescue Dog Day. Be prepared to get emotional—these stories might bring a tear to your eye!

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5. Abandoned dogs get rescued and rehabilitated

A dog and his pup were discovered abandoned near a local library. A kind-hearted woman found them and brought them to a rescue facility. Although they were initially separated due to their age difference, they were ultimately reunited when a loving family adopted both of them together.

4. Dog is rescued from the drain and adopted 

In California, a group of friends on an urban exploration adventure discovered a puppy trapped in a drain, wet and trembling. They immediately took the pup to the vet for a thorough cleaning and medication. After the rescue, the little dog found a forever home with his rescuer. What a heartwarming rescue dog story for National Rescue Dog Day!

3. Woman rescues dog and keeps her as a pet

In Mexico, a woman came across an abandoned dog on the side of the road. The frightened pup clung to her, refusing to leave her side. Moved by the dog’s trust, she took the dog home, cleaned her up, fed her, and showered her with love and attention. Before long, the pup became a cherished member of her family. 

2. Firefighter shows stray dog around the fire station

A stray dog wandered into a fire station, catching the eye of a kind firefighter who gave the doggy a tour. Despite efforts to find the dog’s owners, no one came forward. So, one of the firefighters adopted the dog, naming him Tank. Now, Tank has a loving home and enjoys life at the fire station. It’s a beautiful story of rescue and new beginnings.

1.  Dog trapped in the sewer for weeks gets rescued by duo

In Baguio, Philippines, a frightened little dog bolted into a sewer, scared by New Year’s Eve fireworks. His worried owners searched tirelessly for two weeks until a local animal rescue team finally found him and brought him to the vet. The family’s reunion with their beloved pet was a joyous moment, thanks to the dedication of the rescuers.

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