For most rescue dogs, saving this four-legged bundle is their life’s mission and their greatest satisfaction. Unfortunately for others, it’s just business. When the good folks at Animal Pad in San Diego, California heard about over 300 dogs living in inhumane conditions due to fake rescues, they took immediate action.

When they got there, they were completely shocked by what they saw. There were hundreds of dogs there who weren’t properly fed, cared for, or even given enough space. Inside, in the drum of an old washing machine, was a completely helpless daughter.

Rescued from inhumane conditions

When the rescuers saw My Girl for the first time, she was truly in despair. She was very sick and weak and refused to eat or drink. Erika, director of The Animal Pad and editor and producer of The Dodo, worked tirelessly with her team to help My Girl and 397 other dogs escape from shelters. Fortunately, the community responded quickly and we were flooded with applications.

“I was three hours away at the rescue while other directors were sending me videos of taking care of all these dogs. I was really watching people save these dogs’ lives in real time,” Erica said for The Dodo.

This black canine tested positive for the dreaded distemper, which demanded immediate hospitalization. The crew did the best they could, and the dog’s treatment soon began.

She was named My Girl because the team sang her the rendition of The Temptations’ “My Girl” every day during the treatment. And, with some TLC and proper care – her body started to heal.

Doing Zoomies All Day Long

In just 41 days, my daughter became a brand new dog. She was doing so well that rescue workers in California couldn’t believe she was really sick. With her indomitable spirit and kind nature, My Girl was able to overcome all obstacles and quickly came out of her shell.

Soon after her treatment, My Girl was brought to the AP facility where her new journey began. She started visiting adoption events until, one day, everything changed for the better!

One of the volunteers fell in love with this sweet girl and immediately agreed to foster her. But, the real magic happened when she met his parents!

“The real magic happened when she met the foster’s parents. They absolutely fell in love with her almost immediately. It was love-at-first-sight moment. And now, that is her forever home,” says Erica. 

There was no doubt that My Girl and her new hoomans were absolutely made for each other. After living in captivity, this sweet dog finally got a spacious home and a place where she could do zoomies all day long.

“She can run around on their huge property. She gets zoomies all day long. And most importantly, she’s taken care of and she’s incredibly healthy,” says Erica.