13 Dogs Abandoned in the Cold—Now They’re Waiting for Their Happily-Ever-Aftetr

A few days ago, Dippin’ Dottie was fighting for her life in the brutal cold, surviving alone in an abandoned building as temperatures dropped into the single digits. The ice was so thick it wouldn’t melt, and when rescuers found her, blood trailed behind her in the snow—her paws raw from the freezing ground.

Dottie wanted to trust, but fear kept her from coming close. After hours of patience, a warm meal finally lured her into safety. With the help of two compassionate officers, she was carried down a treacherous, ice-covered staircase and loaded into a warm Jeep—the first real warmth she had felt in a long time.

Now, this 2-year-old, 49-pound cuddlebug is making up for lost time with endless kisses and snuggles. The moment she realized she was safe, she melted into her rescuers’ laps, showing nothing but gratitude, love, and the biggest heart imaginable. Learn More

Hello Friends! My name is Copper, I was brought to the Olive Branch when law enforcement found me tied to a pole. It was in the middle of the night in the freezing cold, luckily they found me before I froze to death. Here at the Olive Branch, I get daily meals and also I’m out of the elements and don’t have to worry because the nice staff tends to all my needs. I have been dewormed, vaccinated, and current on preventatives.

I am still waiting to be neutered, rabies vaccinated and also 4dx combo tested. I will get all that done very soon. If you’re interested in a young happy and sweet pup… go to our website and fill out an application at olivebranchwv.org and get approved and come and adopt me! If you have other pets I’d love to meet them before you consider adopting to see if I’m a fit for your family. Learn More

Nacho is a precious little black and tan chihuahua/rat terrier mix that was dumped outside of CCAPS shelter in a cardboard box in freezing temperatures:( He and his siblings were shy and unsure at first but a few days after arriving at our rescue their personalities came out and they began to play and trust us and now are happy healthy thriving puppies who will be looking for their furever homes soon! 

All of our adoptable animals are up to date on routine vaccinations, microchipped and spayed or neutered.  If the animal is too young a certificate for the spay/neuter is included in the adoption fee. Learn More

Macy and her siblings were abandoned in a cardboard box in freezing temperatures outside of CCAPS animal shelter in Magnolia, Ar. They are sweet and playful and love toys now! When we first received them, they were shy and unsure of people and toys but now they love both and will soon be ready to find their furever homes 🙂 They will stay small and be closer to the size of a chihuahua rather than the size of a rat terrier. we believe they are a mix of the two breeds.

All of our adoptable animals are up to date on routine vaccinations, microchipped and spayed or neutered. If the animal is too young a certificate for the spay/neuter is included in the adoption fee. Learn More

Reba’s journey hasn’t been an easy one, but this resilient pup is proof that kindness can change a life. As a pregnant stray in Georgia, she wandered onto a farm searching for safety. She gave birth there, but when the farm owner tried to bring Reba and her babies to a shelter, they were turned away due to overcrowding. Left with no other option, the woman kept them in a crate on her front porch—even through freezing nights—until Lil Rascals Rescue stepped in to save them.

Now, Reba is looking for a forever family that will give her the love and stability she deserves. Estimated to be around 2–3 years old and weighing 37 pounds, she is a sweetheart through and through. She adores people (kids included!) and is happiest when cuddling up with someone who loves her back. Learn More

On a freezing winter night, just before the snowstorm hit, Zima’s tiny frame was spotted trembling beneath a car. Alone, cold, and desperate for warmth, this little pup’s future looked bleak. But Zima’s story didn’t end in heartbreak—it was just the beginning of a journey to find a family who will cherish her forever.

At only 10 weeks old, Zima has already shown resilience and bravery beyond her years. Her most striking feature? A captivating pale blue eye that tells a story of hope and longing. When she looks at you with her mismatched eyes, it’s as if she’s asking, “Will you love me?” Learn More

Left in the freezing cold streets of Lebanon, Orio and her best friend Olivia were abandoned at a young age. Constantly harassed by passerbys and threatened with harm, they survived against all odds until a kind rescuer stepped in to save them. Orio was pregnant when found and has since given birth to four adorable puppies. Now, she’s ready to leave her difficult past behind and find her forever home. Learn More

Scottie’s story began in heartbreak—dumped in a park, freezing and hungry. But this 1-year-old American Pit Bull Terrier mix has proven that even the toughest starts can’t dim a loving heart. From his very first night in a warm home, Scottie showed he’s a cuddler at heart, becoming the ultimate lap dog.

Scottie thrives with families who can give him love, attention, and plenty of cuddles. He’s great with kids, moderately active, and just wants to be your loyal companion. Learn More

Bridget has faced tough times but remains a bright, loving dog with so much to give. Found wandering alone in freezing 15-degree weather, she eagerly jumped into the car of her finder, hoping for safety and a second chance. With no owners located, Bridget is now waiting for her forever home—or at least a helping hand to get her there.

Bridget’s journey depends on the kindness of people like you. Whether you can sponsor her, foster her, or adopt her, you’ll be changing her life forever. Learn More

Peaches has spent most of her life as a mama dog, bred repeatedly with no care or comfort. After being abandoned in Kentucky, she survived harsh outdoor conditions, enduring extreme cold, loneliness, and a lack of basic care. Now, she’s in desperate need of a warm home where she can finally rest and be loved.

Peaches was taken in by a shelter that operates entirely outdoors, leaving her exposed to freezing temperatures. Her past is a heartbreaking reminder of what too many dogs endure—treated as a means to an end and discarded when no longer useful. Despite everything, Peaches remains incredibly gentle, kind, and great with other dogs. Learn More

Meet Charlie, a 17-pound Bichon Frise with a heart full of love and an incredible story of resilience. Born around July 8, 2021, Charlie was tragically thrown over the fence onto our property late one freezing night, matted and terrified. Thankfully, a staff member of ours spotted him and ensured his safety. 

Despite his rough start, Charlie has blossomed into an affectionate and gentle companion. He gets along wonderfully with other dogs, cats, and people, making him a fantastic fit for almost any home. Charlie’s sweet nature and resilience are sure to win your heart. Learn More

In the middle of a relentless blizzard, over 40 dogs were rescued by the Animal Rescue League of Iowa from unthinkable conditions. These dogs endured freezing temperatures, living outdoors with nothing but two crumbling sheds and a filthy camper for shelter. Many were sick, terrified, and neglected, with matted fur crawling with fleas and painful dental issues.

Seven of these dogs, including Denver, were brought to Hearts United for Animals (HUA) to begin their journey to recovery—both physical and emotional. Denver, a young Beagle mix, has made remarkable strides since his rescue. Though still a bit shy and nervous, Denver finds comfort in the company of other dogs, leaning on them for guidance and support. Learn More

This sweet 12-month-old terrier mix is ready to steal your heart! Weighing in at a perfect 40 pounds, she’s the ideal size for snuggles and playtime. Found abandoned on a busy street in freezing rain, this girl has shown nothing but resilience and a loving spirit. Despite her rough start, she’s a cuddle bug who absolutely adores people and is eager to shower you with affection.

She’s dog-friendly and enjoys the company of other pups, too. Now spayed and healthy, she’s looking for a loving foster or forever home where she can thrive and feel safe. If you’re looking for a loyal companion who will show endless love and appreciation, this girl is your perfect match! Learn More