While all dogs deserve and long for a loving home, that isn’t the reality for many dogs. Some spend their whole lives in terrible conditions… like those bred by puppy mills.
These breeding operations prioritize profit over the animals’ wellbeing, and their dogs often spend their lives locked away in cramped cages without receiving any attention or love.
Luckily there are organizations specializing in rescuing dogs from these places, giving them a much-needed second chance at life.
And a viral video of one dog’s happiness over the simplest thing shows how much these dogs suffer, and the difference a little kindness can make.
The National Mill Dog Rescue is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating mill dogs, helping them to recover from the trauma and find a new home.
One of those dogs was a Chihuahua named Freddie, who was part of a rescue of 35 dogs from a puppy mill in the midwest.
Freddie had spent nine years of his life in the puppy mill, and like many other dogs in his situation was deeply impacted by the experience. He was missing most of his death from a lack of dental care. Still, his personality shone through and he warmed up to his rescuers.
“Life in a cage takes a heavy toll on dogs, both physically and emotionally,” Theresa Strader, founder of NMDR, told The Dodo. “[But] Freddie certainly has a resilient spirit. He is a spunky little guy.”
One adorable video shows just how much Freddie loved his newfound freedom. The rescue gave him a simple gift that he had never had before: his own cozy bed.
It’s clear that Freddie was overjoyed:
“Freddie loved his bed immediately,” Strader told The Dodo. “Other dogs can be more cautious and have no idea what a soft bed is for, but … Freddie snuggled in from the beginning.”
“He knew that this was just one of many perks he will experience.”
Freddie had a taste of freedom, getting used to life outside the puppy mill. The next step was to find him a forever home so he could experience even more of what life had to offer.
Luckily, the NMDR announced that Freddie had been adopted, sharing a video with his new family and dog sibling:
For a dog who has been suffering so long even the smallest comforts can mean the world.
We’re so happy Freddie has found his forever home, we know he’ll be so happy for now on! Share this inspiring story!
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