Three dogs, once destined for slaughter in South Korea, found a new leash on life through HSHV this summer.

Ellie, Akira, and Luna were among nearly 70 dogs rescued by Humane World for Animals, a nonprofit working internationally to end the dog meat trade. After receiving emergency medical care abroad, three of the survivors were transferred to HSHV.

Having spent their days in wire cages, without comfort, affection, warm beds or nourishing food, Ellie, Akira and Luna were at first, too terrified to leave their kennels. But within days of arriving in Ann Arbor, all three were welcomed by loving families.

“I am honored to give Akira a second chance at a happy life. Her resilience and energetic spirit, even during challenging times, are inspiring every day,” says Michaela Broadnax, Ypsilanti resident and dog adopter. “Akira’s courage and gentle nature remind me of the importance of rescue and adoption, and she has truly brought so much happiness into my life.”

“Luna’s story makes me want to cry,” her adopter, Sandy Wallace of Fenton said. “She has made herself at home and is doing so good. She is a wonderful addition to our family and has settled in nicely. She is a very sweet girl and has two acres to run and chase squirls and birds. We will give her the life she deserves.”

Melissa McVicker, whose family adopted Ellie said, “We absolutely ADORE her and consider her serendipitous addition to our life an unexpected blessing.”

Though the dogs’ pasts were grim, their futures look bright—and their stories a triumph of compassion plus collaboration.

We’re grateful to Humane World for Animals for the work they’re doing to end the dog meat trade and for entrusting us to find loving homes, and to the adopters who stepped up and opened their hearts. The rescue was part of a broader effort to end the dog meat industry in South Korea, where the trade has been officially banned but enforcement and transition efforts are ongoing.

With patience and love, as well as your support, we helped these wonderful dogs learn to trust, heal and shine. Thank you for your compassion and for being a part of their beautiful new beginnings!