Working Together to Rescue Animals
First established in 1997, OHS’ Second Chance Program is a collaborative effort with one crucial goal in mind: saving lives. Through the program, OHS works with more than 90 shelters and rescue groups in Oregon and across the country to transport pets from areas experiencing natural disasters or those with limited space.
While conducting a search of the forested area, emergency responders came across Tunnel King and the other dogs in need of help. They reached out to Columbia Gorge Humane Society and OHS for support, springing OHS’ Second Chance team into action.
Through the smoke-filled air and sweltering heat, the team swiftly collected the dogs from the rural property, carefully loaded them into the air-conditioned van, and transported them to safety.
Creating a Safe Place to Recover
After arriving at OHS’ Behavior and Rescue Center in Portland, Tunnel King and the other dogs were wary and exhausted from their ordeal. Each dog was small, with Tunnel King weighing in at just 16 pounds. Having just escaped the remote forested area on the edge of smoke and fire, the dogs found themselves in an unrecognizable place with new faces, sounds, and smells. Understandably, they were timid and unsure of how to trust the kind hands offering support. The calm, dedicated space of the BRC gave them a safe area to decompress.
In the days following their rescue, OHS’ expert trainers began gentle introductions with each of the dogs, working toward establishing trust through positive interactions. While most of the dogs cowered away, the trainers saw quickly that Tunnel King was different. Each time they approached, he came forward to greet them while happily wagging his tail.
Inspired by his enthusiasm, trainers offered Tunnel King an opportunity to become an ambassador to his fellow evacuees, in the hopes that the others would follow his lead.
Learning to Love Again
Sure enough, Tunnel King joyfully accepted his new role and welcomed a leash. As he joined his trainer and walked by the other kennels, his confidence and relaxed energy quickly spread, helping the other dogs learn they were in safe hands.
One by one, the dogs relaxed, allowing staff to care for them and gradually earn their trust. Before long, Tunnel King and the other dogs each found new, loving homes of their own.
Your Kindness Makes a Difference
Like Tunnel King, you can be a helper to the many other animals needing rescue, recovery, and specialized care as they prepare for adoption.Your gift helps Oregon Humane Society provide these lifesaving services and serve a larger community of animals through our Second Chance Program.
Will you donate today and be a superhero to animals in need?
