Madeline Garvis Smith
Meet Tanner, the Rescue Dog Who Just Wants a Hug
Tanner’s journey began on the streets of Houston, Texas, where he was found wandering alone. Rescuers brought him to a local shelter, hoping he’d soon find a loving home. But after three weeks without adoption, Tanner’s name was added to the shelter's euthanasia list.
That’s when Madeline Garvis Smith, a local animal advocate, met him—and everything changed.
“He was full of love and desperate for attention,” Garvis Smith shared with *The Dodo*. “Leaving him in that kennel broke my heart. I meet a lot of dogs, but Tanner really stood out. Some just tug at your soul.”
Garvis Smith, who uses her Instagram platform to promote shelter animals, quickly shared Tanner’s story online, hoping to find him a foster home before time ran out.
“People often tag rescue groups online expecting help,” she said. “But they don’t always realize how vital foster homes are to making that happen.”
Tanner’s plea didn’t go unheard. A local foster mom reached out, offering him a place to stay. Shortly after, the Animal Rescue Network of New England (ARNNE) stepped in, agreeing to take him once he was ready. Tanner was finally on his way to a better life.
Before he left the shelter, Tanner made sure to show his gratitude—with hugs for all the staff.
“He literally hugged the people who cared for him,” Garvis Smith said. “It was like he knew he was getting a second chance.”
Now, Tanner is thriving in his foster home, spending his days playing and soaking up affection. Soon, he’ll head to New Hampshire, where he’ll stay with ARNNE while he waits to be adopted into his forever family.
Garvis Smith is confident that Tanner will be the perfect companion for someone.
“He’s house-trained, crate-trained, great with dogs and kids,” she said. “All he wants is a best friend to snuggle with for life.”
To follow Tanner’s journey and support more dogs in need, visit Garvis Smith’s Instagram or consider donating to the Animal Rescue Network of New England.