Heartwarming

Saved From Euthanasia, This Sweet Beagle Can’t Stop Snuggling Up To His Rescuer

C. Olmstead February 26, 2021

A sad reality for dogs taken to animal shelters is that due to overcrowding, not all dogs make it out alive. Thankfully, there are angels that walk amongst us that tirelessly try to save all homeless dogs.

This is the story of one such rescuer named Joe Kirk, an animal lover, and owner of an animal rescue organization. Joe saved this sweet pup, named Gregory, from euthanasia after a shelter discovered Gregory had a serious but treatable health problem.

Gregory is a 2-year-old beagle that was brought to the Franklin County Dog Shelter in Columbus. Gregory appeared to be a healthy dog since he was playful and energetic but soon the staff at the shelter found out that he had heartworms.

Source: Facebook/Schenley Hutson Kirk

Heartworms are serious and infect dogs through mosquito bites. Despite this, they are treatable with help from a vet. Left untreated, the dog will get sicker and they can cause organ damage, serious illness, and death. Gregory had a serious case and the shelter had some tough decisions to make.

Sadly, the shelter decided the best option for Gregory was euthanasia but luckily for Gregory, Joe Kirk learned about the dog and decided he wanted to try to save his life. He drove to the shelter and met Gregory in person. He then offered to take the pup home and treat him himself.

Source: Facebook/Schenley Hutson Kirk

For Joe and Gregory, it was friendship at first sight. The two immediately bonded. In fact, so much so Joe didn’t even bother to crate Gregory, he let him ride in the backseat of his car. He told Today in an interview:

“It was like we had known each other for years.”

Source: Facebook/Schenley Hutson Kirk

Of course, Gregory was thrilled to be rescued and on their way home, Joe took some pictures of the adorable dog while they were stopped at a light to share with his wife. The sweet beagle was snuggled up to Joe with his head on his shoulder and in another one, with a paw resting on his arm.

Source: Facebook/Schenley Hutson Kirk

It’s these pictures of the thankful dog that captured the heart of the internet. It is clear the dog knew he was being helped and so grateful for his new friend for taking him home. Clearly, Gregory is showing his love and appreciation to Joe for saving his life. Joe’s wife shared:

“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!”