I received a free copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This book was both heartbreaking and inspiring all wrapped in one. As the proud Momma of a rescue pup myself after volunteering at a local shelter I know how tough the rescue environment can be. Seeing so many dogs passing through, people giving up on their dog for one reason or another and not thinking of their pet as a member of the family. This story is told by Peter who travels with Greg a driver who travels from the South to the North bringing upward of 80 dogs at a time to their forever homes. Peter also spends time with local shelter organizations, rescue centers, and advocates for dogs. Heroes who drive through the cities of Texas scouring for the unwanted dogs that have been tossed aside just so they can feed them and try and vaccinate them. He tries to explain why the problem is so much more rampant in the South. It also tells of Greg's huge sacrifice with life on the road but how much he really cares about each dog he transports. I was so moved by this story and really just want to help in anyway I can.

This is an interesting look at how and why dogs from the American South get transported up north to be adopted. I enjoyed it overall, but I wasn't expecting some of the horrific stories that are in here, describing in detail violence done against dogs.

Greg Mahle is an inspiration to animal lovers. He sacrifices so much to help southern rescue dogs find their forever homes in the northeast. I learned a lot about rescue organizations and the incredible people that run them throughout this book. I've lived in the Houston area for 13 years and had no idea how large a problem we have with stray animals in the 5th Ward. Absolutely heartbreaking. Shout out to Greg and all those that work tirelessly to give these rescue dogs a chance at a happy and loving home.

Several times while reading this book, I’d have to look away and take a few deep breaths to compose myself. The thought of dogs being in pain, abused, neglected, hungry, suffering… it makes me tear up instantly. These creatures offer so much joy, love, and devotion. They deserve to be pampered every day of their lives. But sadly, most are never given the chance. Most never know love or even a kind touch. I knew there was a stray problem in the south, but until reading this book, I was ignorant of the magnitude.

I have three rescues from 3 different southern states. This book appealed to me so I could learn about their journey (though, as far as I know, they weren’t part of the operation described in this book; however, I imagine their journeys were very similar). I had no idea how many people it took to rescue a single dog. Their journey is astounding, and the tireless volunteers who work to save them, well, I believe there's a special area in heaven reserved for them (filled with puppies of course).

What really struck me is how improbable it is for a dog to get saved. There are literally millions of southern dogs in need of homes. Many will remain strays for the duration of their life. A good many will be euthanized for not having enough space in shelters. I challenge anyone who is thinking of going to a breeder to read this book. With the sheer volume of adoptable shelter dogs, there is simply no reason to go to a breeder. Rescue dogs make excellent pets as I can personally attest to.

I was so moved by this book that I would share parts aloud with my boyfriend. When I was telling him about the horrors of Houston, he said, “You know, most of these dogs would make great family pets- but they’ll never get the chance. It’s such a shame.” It absolutely breaks my heart.

This book isn’t an easy read, but its an important one. Midway through the book I filled out a volunteer application for a local rescue. What better review can I give on the impact of this book than that?

I received a complimentary copy of this book as a Goodreads First Read in exchange for an honest review.

And boy, am I glad I did. This book details the heartwrenching details of dog rescue, and goes through the daily lives of those who save countless animals every day. I loved every page, and am so thankful for everyone involved in rescue. I am inspired to get more involved myself, as well, as I live near Allentown, where Greg stops twice a month with his truck on the way to Gotcha Day.

This book made me laugh and cry, more than a few times, and I am so glad I had the opportunity to read it.

Week 40 of the 2015 Reading Challenge: A Book That Made You Cry

I think it's a given that any book involving animals will make me cry! This author recently gave a brief talk at one of the adoption events that the rescue I volunteer for was having. It was really interesting and I was inspired to buy his book.

I volunteer for a rescue that pulls their dogs from southern shelters and transports them via a similar service. I know how much different the attitude towards dogs is in their area vs where I live in the north. I don't think I could do what they do - seeing the hurt, neglected and abandoned and having to make a choice about which ones they can help and which ones they can't. But like the people in this book, they are focusing on their piece and trying to make a difference one dog at a time.

I enjoyed the book even though it was heartbreaking at times. Hopefully it will open more eyes to the huge problem facing the treatment of our companion animals and encourage people to do just a little bit to try and help.

So many tears, happy and sad.