Tanner, the Hugging Dog, Saved from Euthanasia and Searching for a Forever Home

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In Houston, a young dog named Tanner has captured hearts with his unique way of asking for love: giving hugs. His gentle spirit nearly went unnoticed, however, when he landed on a shelter’s euthanasia list due to overcrowding.

Just a year old, Tanner had already endured a hard start to life. Found wandering the streets in search of food and affection, he was brought into a local shelter where his future seemed uncertain. Despite the challenges, he quickly became known for his affectionate habit of climbing into volunteers’ laps and wrapping his paws around them.

“He just wanted to be close to people,” said one volunteer. “It was his way of asking not to be forgotten.”

His story might have ended there if not for Madeline Garvis Smith, a Houston animal advocate. After meeting Tanner and experiencing one of his signature hugs, she shared his story on Instagram, hoping someone would step forward to help.

The post reached Kari, an experienced foster caregiver, who agreed to take Tanner in. Before leaving the shelter, the pup gave parting hugs to staff and volunteers, as if to thank them for their care.

At first, Tanner was shy in his foster home, adjusting slowly to a world outside the shelter. But within days, his personality reemerged: playful, affectionate, and always ready to snuggle.

Now, Tanner is preparing for the next chapter of his journey. He will soon travel to the Animal Rescue Network of New England, where he will wait for the permanent family he so deserves.

Advocates say Tanner’s story highlights both the crisis of shelter overcrowding and the remarkable resilience of rescue animals. “He almost didn’t get his chance,” Smith explained. “But now, someone will get the gift of his hugs for a lifetime.”

Tanner, once overlooked, is proof that sometimes the biggest hearts come from the hardest places. And for the lucky family who adopts him, every hug will be a reminder of the love that saved his life.