Dozens of vulnerable dogs in Tennessee are finally getting a second chance after a major rescue effort helped bring 37 animals to safety.
Animal Rescue Corps, also known as ARC, partnered with local shelters and animal control agencies across the state to rescue and care for dogs in urgent need, including abandoned puppies and senior Chihuahuas from an alleged cruelty case.
The group said the rescue efforts came as local shelters were already stretched thin with limited space, funding, and resources.
ARC executive director Tim Woodward said the organization was able to step in and support overwhelmed shelters by helping with transport, veterinary care, and temporary housing.
“These types of collaborations are happening every day,” Woodward told PEOPLE. “Our partners are often facing urgent situations with limited resources, and we’re able to step in to help stabilize those cases and create positive outcomes for the animals.”
Among the rescued dogs were 18 mixed-breed puppies, just 6 to 8 weeks old, who had been surrendered in Alamo, Tennessee.
ARC also took in a pit bull mother and her nine tiny puppies after they were abandoned. The puppies were only about 4 weeks old.
In Nashville, ARC worked with Metro Animal Care and Control to help nine senior Chihuahuas who had been rescued from a cruelty-and-neglect case. The older dogs needed specialized medical care and extra attention.
All of the dogs are now being treated at ARC’s rescue center outside Nashville. There, staff members are providing veterinary care, proper nutrition, rehabilitation, and individualized support.
Once the dogs are healthy and ready, ARC will work with adoption partners to help place them in permanent homes.
Woodward said these rescue partnerships are critical, especially as animal shelters around the country continue to struggle with overcrowding.
“Rescue is a team effort,” he said. “Our partners are able to expand capacity, relieve overcrowding and ensure more animals receive the care they deserve. We can reach more animals and make a greater impact every single day.”
The rescue comes as shelters nationwide continue facing major strain. According to Shelter Animals Count, more than 5.8 million dogs and cats entered U.S. shelters and rescues in 2025, while about 4.2 million were adopted.
For these 37 Tennessee dogs, the rescue marks the beginning of a safer, happier chapter after frightening and uncertain starts.