National Mill Dog Rescue (NMDR), located in Peyton, Colorado, was founded with the objective to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome discarded breeding dogs while raising awareness about the grim realities of the breeding industry.
They face challenges in saving ‘breeder stock’, puppies considered worthless, and dogs that are unwanted.
“We might not manage to save them all, but we’re certainly going to attempt” ~ NMDR
Apart from saving thousands of dogs and performing extraordinary work, this rescue has a distinctive tradition of providing a soft blanket to every new arrival at their facility.
In numerous instances, it’s their first experience seeing one…
A Rescue Dog’s Very First Blanket
Receiving a soft blanket for the very first time is an incredibly special occasion for a rescue dog.
“Most have spent their lives in cages with wire bottoms, so when they come across these blankets, they genuinely don’t know how to react,” stated Melody Kahtava, NMDR’s social media manager, to The Dodo.
Regrettably, these dogs have endured significant cruelty during their brief existence, and they have never felt the touch of a loving hand, much less rested on a soft blanket.
Though these blankets may seem trivial, they represent their new life – the one they have yet to experience after being rescued.
No more frigid concrete, darkness, or confinement in small cages.
The shelter notes that the dogs typically have a truly priceless reaction upon receiving their first blanket.
“Some may be slightly apprehensive, while others seem prepared to welcome the change. What a unique present when softness and comfort is something you’ve never known,” the rescue shared in one of their messages.
@milldogrescue Figuring out how to interact with your first blanket… #priceless. #firstblanket #rescuedogsoftiktok #dogrescuersoftiktok #puppymillrescue #adoptables ♬ Nothing Better – Acoustic Version – In Paradise
Determining What To Do
Nearly all dogs exhibit quite a similar response to their new blanket.
At first, they are somewhat dubious about the gift, and their instinct is to explore it with their nose.
While blankets can provide tremendous comfort, they can also be daunting and thrilling for dogs unfamiliar with them.
Dogs typically express astonishment, joy, concern, and sheer curiosity upon encountering it for the first time.
“Many engage in careful sniffing. Some jump onto them as if it’s the finest thing they’ve ever encountered… because it pretty much is. They certainly come to appreciate them quite rapidly. Most can be found cuddling with them regularly.” Kahtava mentioned.
Blankets can help dogs feel more at ease and joyful, particularly after all they have endured.
Such a simple item like a soft blanket offers them comfort that many of us take for granted.
“We frequently observe them nestled in their blankets, though alone, it is still calming. It’s such a sweet and heartwarming sight to witness these dogs relishing the comforts we often overlook,” mentioned the rescue.
This is Rascal – one of their rescue dogs who enjoys wrapping himself in for the evening with his treasured gift:
When the dogs are ultimately adopted into their permanent homes, each one is given a brand-new blanket.
“It’s a highly significant component of our adoption process,” Kahtava informed The Dodo.
National Mill Dog Rescue typically saves multiple dogs at a time, and they frequently require various supplies, including blankets.
If you are interested in contributing and assisting with the transition for the dogs from puppy mills to new homes, please visit their website.