Stray dogs spend their days wandering the streets, searching for food and a safe place to rest. Each sunrise brings new hope that someone will notice them and offer a chance at a better life. Tanner, a sweet pup from Houston, Texas, lived this exact struggle. He roamed the streets with hopeful eyes, silently begging for someone to rescue him.
One day, Tanner’s wish finally came true. A kind soul found him and brought him to a local animal shelter. The staff immediately saw that Tanner wasn’t like other dogs. He had something special—an affectionate, loving nature that stood out the moment he arrived.
From Shelter to Euthanasia List
Despite his warm personality, Tanner struggled to find an adopter. Days turned into weeks, and after three long weeks without any interest, Tanner’s name was tragically added to the euthanasia list. The shelter, overwhelmed and overcrowded, had limited options. Even the most loving dogs faced heartbreaking outcomes.
Then came a miracle in the form of Madeline Garvis Smith, a local animal advocate. When she met Tanner, he walked up to her and placed his paws around her shoulders. He gave her the sweetest, most genuine hug—a silent plea for love. That moment melted her heart.
“He was pure love; almost starved for attention,” she shared. “Putting him back in his kennel was the hardest part. He was just so lonely. I meet a lot of dogs, but some pull on your heartstrings more than others. Tanner was one of them.”
A Hugging Dog Becomes a Social Media Star
Garvis Smith decided to share Tanner’s story on her Instagram page, hoping to find someone who could save him. On August 26, 2023, she introduced Tanner to her followers as a “cuddly love bug” who deserved a real chance.
Tanner had a way of winning hearts. He hugged every volunteer who came near, jumping into their laps and soaking up every bit of attention. Despite being a one-year-old dog, he loved to be cradled like a baby. His joyful spirit refused to fade, even while he waited behind kennel bars.
A Foster Home Opens Its Heart
Garvis Smith’s emotional plea quickly gained traction. Soon, a kind woman named Kari stepped up and offered to foster Tanner. She couldn’t bear the thought of this lovable dog losing his life without ever experiencing a real home.
When it was finally time to leave the shelter, Tanner showed gratitude in his own sweet way. He gently hugged the shelter staff, as if to say thank you. Then, he happily followed Kari outside, his tail wagging for the first time in days.
Inside the car, Tanner snuggled up to Kari. She kissed his head, feeling both relieved and overjoyed. She had saved a life, and Tanner knew it.
Learning to Love Again
At first, Tanner felt unsure in his new environment. The sights and sounds of a home were unfamiliar. But as the days passed, he began to relax. His foster family showered him with love, and Tanner soaked it all in.
He quickly learned that this was what happiness felt like—a warm bed, soft voices, gentle hands, and love that never ran out. He responded with even more hugs and tail wags.
A Bright Future Ahead
Soon, Tanner will move to the Animal Rescue Network of New England in New Hampshire. There, he’ll continue waiting for his forever family. But this time, the wait will be different. He won’t be alone or scared. He’ll be surrounded by people who care and who are committed to finding him the perfect match.
Tanner has already proven that he has so much love to give. With every hug, he reminds us that all dogs deserve a second chance. The family who finally adopts him will be gaining a loyal, affectionate companion who simply wants to share his heart.
Tanner’s journey teaches us that even in the darkest moments, hope and love can shine through. He continues hugging everyone he meets, holding onto the dream of a family to call his own. Let’s hope that dream comes true very soon.
