A dog seized by authorities following an undercover investigation into illegal breeding operations by animal rights organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has found happiness with her first-ever family.
Ruthie the Jack Russell terrier was neglected, repeatedly bred, and had litters taken away from her by a backyard breeder in Michigan. But in a newly released video from PETA, she looks unrecognizable thanks to her new family who adopted her and pledged to protect her.
One of 39 dogs seized by authorities and placed for adoption, Ruthie's new life is thanks to an undercover investigation by PETA into an unlicensed kennel. During the investigation, the charity found dogs penned outside with no beds or toys. They were exposed to rain and snow leaving them soaked and unable to get warm or dry.
There are an estimated 10,000 puppy mills in the U.S., including both licensed and unlicensed facilities. With over two million puppies bred in puppy mills each year, an estimated 1.2 million dogs are euthanized in shelters every year.
After spending so much time without having a single toy or even a name, Ruthie had lots of adjusting to do to get used to a new life. Kenny and Nikki Carney adopted the adorable pup and spent the time helping her to adjust to life indoors.
Fortunately, Ruthie had two new canine companions to show her the ropes. "They pretty much taught her the ins and outs of everything here," said Kenny Carney.
Now safe in her new home, PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch hopes that the story will make people think twice about where their pets come from.
"Ruthie found love, but as long as people buy from breeders rather than adopting from shelters, other wonderful dogs will be caged or penned in puppy mills and deprived of the care and love they need," said Nachminovitch.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says that about 6.3 million companion animals enter U.S. shelters every year while only around 4.1 million pets are adopted each year.
PETA hopes that Ruthie's story will inspire more people to look to shelters when searching for new pets and avoid backstreet breeders.
"PETA reminds everyone that breeders see dogs as breeding machines," said Nachminovitch: "There simply to churn out pups for them to sell."
Having come a long way from the dire conditions she was found in, Ruthie's life outdoors among bitter conditions and dirty kennels is now a distant memory as she has settled in with her new family where she is able to live a healthy life.
"Ruthie is the first of many rescues," said new owner Kenny: "And I hope that somehow her experience can help others just bridge the gap."
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? We want to see the best ones! Send them in to life@newsweek.com and they could appear on our site.
Uncommon Knowledge
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
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