'Rescued is my favorite breed': Thinking about a new furry friend? Wednesday is National Rescue Dog Day
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — Wednesday is National Rescue Dog Day, a day to celebrate the special pups that leave pawprints on our hearts.
There are thousands of dogs available for adoption at rescues across Wisconsin.
For busy shelters, like the Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission (MADACC), every day is a day to celebrate rescue dogs.
"I always say rescued is my favorite breed, because they are by far the most rewarding animals," said Anna Remiger, a volunteer at MADACC.
Remiger spent her Wednesday afternoon doing one of her favorite things: walking shelter dogs.
It's part of her weekly routine for the last two years.
"There's so many good animals here that just deserve a loving home," Remiger said. "If you just give them a little patience, with time, they are going to be your best friends," she said.
There are more than a thousand volunteers and staff members at MADACC who care for the animals as they await new homes.
"It's been pretty busy, but our adoption numbers have been good," said Kate Hartlund, MADACC's community engagement coordinator. "We've been very lucky with our transport partners, to be able to get some animals transferred to other shelters, so we haven't been too overcrowded."
Thousands of dogs come through MADACC's doors every year. So far in 2026, 581 dogs have been adopted from MADACC, and 460 dogs have been transferred to partner rescues.
One of the adoptees is named Nibbles - a hairless shih tzu mix adopted by Hartlund and her daughter.
"His eyes were crusted shut with ulcers," Hartlund said. "We got him back to health, and my daughter and I just couldn't imagine life without him."
Nibbles
That's what rescue is all about: a well-deserved new "leash" on life.
"It just helps them come out of their shell," explained Hartlund. "Learn how to trust, learn how to be a dog, learn how to be a cat, and get on with living their best lives."
Right now, MADACC has more than 40 dogs up for adoption of all different ages, sizes, and activity levels.
"Them getting treated right and in loving family homes, you can really see their personality shine," Remiger said.
Interested adopters are encouraged to stop by MADACC; no appointment needed. They will be asked to fill out an adopter profile and meet with an adoption counselor.
Adoption hours are Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and weekends from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Click here to learn more about adoption.
MADACC and its partner shelters are also always looking for volunteers and fosters. Click here to learn more about those opportunities.
