Beagle Saved from Death Row Hugs His Rescuer in Sweetest Freedom Ride
A beagle who was scheduled to be euthanized at the Franklin County Dog Shelter, showed his appreciation to his rescuer during their car ride home in the sweetest way.
The 2-year-old shelter dog named Gregory was saved by Joe Kirk, who works at Ohio’s HOUND Rescue and Sanctuary. Gregory didn’t have much time left because he had heartworm, not only a death sentence health-wise, but also because the shelter could not afford the costly treatment.
Thankfully, the “rescue only” pup came to the attention of HOUND Rescue and Sanctuary and Gregory was rescued in time.
During their freedom ride, Kirk took a “selfie” of them that quickly went viral. In it, Gregory leans into Kirk, giving him an embrace.
HOUND Rescue and Sanctuary shared the photo later on their Facebook page and wrote:
“The BEST Freedom Ride Picture EVER! Pulled from the Euthanasia List at FCDS today by HOUND Rescue and Sanctuary, “Gregory” is one thankful and appreciative Beagle! He KNOWS he is SAFE! He is Heartworm Positive and will be going through treatment, but he knows he is in good hands! We will get him healthy and provide him all the love he so deserves and a wonderful future!! What a Great photo of Gregory and my Husband Joe on their way home from the shelter! This is what makes it all worthwhile! This is why we Rescue!”
Gregory underwent his heartworm treatment and it made him feel a bit down. “He is on strict crate rest and he is not very happy about it,” his rescuers wrote at the time. But we know it is what is best for him in his final stage of recovery.”
“He is such a sweet little fella and we hate to see him feeling a little under the weather but we are giving him lots of extra love and attention and special care! Gregory has been such a trooper through it all and we are glad the treatment is done and he can soon get back to living a happy, healthy and active life and most importantly, NO Heartworms! We love you Gregory!! You are such an amazing little Beagle!!”
A month after he completed his heartworm medication, Gregory got more good news.
HOUND Rescue and Sanctuary shared:
“CONGRATULATIONS “GREGORY” – ADOPTED Today! After being pulled from the Euthanasia list at FCDS by HOUND Rescue and Sanctuary, this Awesome couple immediately contacted us and knew they wanted to Adopt him! They patiently waited while we provided his medical care and he underwent his heartworm treatment and recovery. After waiting so patiently to meet him, it could not have been more perfect! Everyone loves each other! Gregory loves his new Beagle Brother Scooter, his Beagle Sister Ginger and his new Forever Mom and Dad! He even got to meet his new Grandma!! Thank you so very much to The Thompson Family for choosing to Adopt again! Have a Wonderful Life Together!!”
Visit The HOUND Rescue and Sanctuary for details about their rescue work.