CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Chattanooga Humane Educational Society rescues many animals throughout the year.
A recent rescue from South Korea has greatly impacted the shelter.
“I don’t think many people realize what these animals have been through,” HES volunteer and foster parent Christopher Highwood said.
Chickadee came from a dog meat farm where she spent most of her life in a cage.
Along with nine other dogs, she was rescued and taken to the shelter.
“She was definitely the most anxious of the 10. I mean, she just she wouldn’t come out of the kennel, she wouldn’t. She didn’t even want to look at anyone. She just wanted to be by herself,” Highwood said.
Chickadee has come a long way since she was brought in.
“It just goes to show that these dogs that have been through… I mean she’s been through so much,” Highwood said.
She is now in foster care while she waits for her forever home.
“She’s not your average dog, I don’t think she ever will be. But that being said, she just needs someone who loves animals, who’s just willing to put forth a dog that is just not your average dog,” Highwood said.
The shelter has many animals and can use help with fostering or donations.
“It’s a great way to serve your community. To help your community. Help these animals. I mean they really need us,” Highwood said.
Besides adopting, volunteers can get involved with the shelter by fostering, donating, and even offering enrichment resources.
“This is probably one of the best things I’ve done in my life. I mean it makes my day, makes the dogs day, it makes the staff’s day,” Highwood said.
Chickadee along with many other animals are still up for adoption.
Volunteers can offer shelter support by reaching out in-person or online.