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Celebrating Gotcha Day

Celebrating Gotcha Day

Why Gotcha Day Matters: Celebrating New Beginnings for Rescue Dogs

Gotcha Day! Have you heard of it? Do you know what it is? If you aren’t familiar, here’s everything you need to know.

Gotcha Day is the anniversary of when a pet is officially adopted and joins their forever home. It’s a special celebration that acknowledges the day a rescue pet finds a loving family, marking the beginning of their new life away from past hardships. For many adopters, Gotcha Day is as meaningful as a pet’s birthday—if not more so—because it represents a fresh start and a moment of love, commitment, and care.

Rumi’s First Day

This day is especially significant for adopted pets because it honors the journey they’ve been on and the transformation they experience. It’s a celebration not only of finding a home but also of the resilience and trust that rescue pets show as they settle into new environments and open their hearts to their new families.

In our family, we celebrated Gotcha Day on Nov 6th, the day we brought home our foster (fail), and soon to be adopted pup, Rumi. We had been looking to adopt for a year or so, watching the different dogs come and go through the rescue. Low and behold, a random foster would become the dog we were looking for, the newest member of our family. He had the temperament and personality we were looking for, in a small package that could easily travel with us to visit family. 

Travel Day with Rumi!

Rumi was part of the largest Korean puppy mill shutdown in history, where over 1400 dogs were rescued from horrendous conditions. Just seeing the photos and videos, reading and hearing the first hand accounts of what was going on just made you sick to your stomach. 

Celebrating Gotcha Day with Rumi feels like honoring a little miracle. His journey—from a heart-wrenching start in a Korean puppy mill to a cozy spot on our couch—reminds us of the resilience and love these dogs bring into our lives. When we look at Rumi now, it’s hard to imagine the pain he endured, yet he’s blossomed into the kind of dog who plays, snuggles, and trusts wholeheartedly. This is what Gotcha Day is all about: recognizing the courage it takes for a rescue dog to leave the past behind and embrace a new beginning.

Korean K9 Rescue does incredible work, saving dogs like Rumi from unthinkable conditions, and Gotcha Day is a way to honor not only our dogs but also the efforts of those who made their journey to a forever home possible. For our family, it’s a reminder of the importance of second chances and how one rescued dog can completely change your world. Celebrating Rumi’s Gotcha Day feels like celebrating his strength, his heart, and the joy he brings into our lives every day.

How are you celebrating your Gotcha Day?

Happy Rumi

If you’re inspired by Rumi’s story, consider opening your home to a rescue dog in need. Organizations like Korean K9 Rescue work tirelessly to give these animals a new chance at life, and you could be the forever family they’re waiting for. By adopting, you’re not only transforming the life of a dog but also creating memories that will fill your heart in ways you never imagined. Reach out to your local rescue, volunteer, foster, or adopt—and join the journey of making Gotcha Days possible for more deserving dogs.

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Korean K9 Rescue’s Fight Against the Dog Meat Trade

puppies in the puppy mill

Korean K9 Rescue’s Fight Against the Dog Meat Trade

Ending the Dog Meat Trade: How Korean K9 Rescue is Saving Lives and Creating Change

Each year, thousands of dogs across Asia find themselves trapped in the harrowing cycle of the dog meat trade. These dogs endure unimaginable suffering in slaughterhouses, confined to small cages, and denied primary care. Yet, thanks to a growing movement for animal rights, organizations like Korean K9 Rescue are paving a path to freedom and new beginnings for many of these animals.

South Korea’s attitude towards the dog meat trade have been shifting dramatically. In January 2024, the South Korean government passed a landmark bill that will entirely outlaw the breeding, slaughter, and selling of dogs for meat by 2027. With nearly 82% of South Koreans supporting this ban, the government responded with legislation protecting dogs and providing farmers with resources to transition to alternative livelihoods. However, the law’s full effect is still a few years away, meaning that many dogs remain in harm’s way. Dog meat farmers are taking in more dogs than ever, and the collection of dogs is surging, so the farmers can collect more government incentives ahead of the ban and transition period. That means for organizations like Korean K9 Rescue, the work to find and shut down slaughterhouses and puppy mills remains ongoing and urgent.

puppy mill rescue

Just this past October 17th, our team successfully shut down two slaughterhouses and a puppy mill in Busan with our partners, marking a victory for animal welfare and our mission. Next door to the slaughterhouses, a dog meat restaurant also closed its doors. Each rescue highlights the immense need for on-the-ground intervention in the years leading up to 2027, as many facilities operate secretly. With each successful shutdown, these dogs receive immediate safety relief. They are given a chance to experience love and companionship, sometimes for the first time, at our rescue and rehabilitation center in Bundang, South Korea. Here, the dogs recover in a loving environment and learn that kindness from humans does exist from our hard-working team.

The recent South Korean legislation is a significant victory, akin to the UK’s “Lucy’s Law,” which restricts third-party sales of puppies and kittens to combat unethical breeding practices. However, until the law fully takes effect, Korean K9 Rescue will continue its mission, seeking out facilities and rescuing dogs who still face the reality of the meat trade. Our work to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs is a commitment we take to heart, transforming frightened survivors into cherished family members.

slaughterhouse survivor

How You Can Help

At Korean K9 Rescue, we’re always looking for ways to increase our impact, but we can’t do it alone. If you’re inspired by our mission, there are many ways to join the fight against the dog meat trade and help us save lives. We’re actively seeking fosters and adopters who can offer safe, loving homes for our rescued dogs. Volunteers are also essential to our work, helping with events, transports, and daily care. And, of course, donations are vital to sustain our rescue efforts, support medical care, and enable future shutdowns of inhumane facilities.

protesting illegal puppy mills and slaughterhouses

Together, we can make a difference for these dogs and bring hope to even more lives. Thank you for being part of this mission! To learn more about how you can help, visit us here.

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Surviving the Heat: The Heartbreaking Rescue of Busan’s Forgotten Dogs

Surviving the Heat: The Heartbreaking Rescue of Busan’s Forgotten Dogs

Fighting for Freedom: Rescuing Dogs from the Brink of Despair in Busan’s Worst Conditions

Rescuing animals from puppy mills and slaughterhouses is never easy, but this latest mission has left an unforgettable mark on all of us. What our team at Korean K9 Rescue (KK9R) witnessed on October 17th in Busan will stay with us for a long time—the sights, sounds, and smells were truly heartbreaking. The sheer scale of suffering was overwhelming, as 575 dogs were trapped in horrific conditions across two slaughterhouses and a puppy mill. These innocent souls had endured unimaginable cruelty for far too long.

Some of the dogs were hiding in dark, filthy corners, trying to escape the chaos around them. Others roamed freely through debris and rotting wood, living among the remains of those who didn’t make it. The air was heavy with a sense of neglect, and the atmosphere was filled with the quiet echoes of their hardship.

This summer was one of the hottest on record in Korea, with temperatures soaring to unbearable levels. It’s a miracle these dogs survived under such extreme conditions, trapped in cages with little to no ventilation, food, or water. Many were severely malnourished, dehydrated, and traumatized—barely clinging to life in the only way they knew how—by retreating into themselves and waiting for an end.

This was the toughest and most grueling rescue we’ve faced all year. Our team spent 18 exhausting hours on-site, pulling 65 dogs—and even a few cats—from rooftops, piles of debris, and locked cages. It felt like a race against time, and every moment mattered. The remaining dogs were split between 20 other Lucy’s Law groups, who worked tirelessly to help save as many lives as possible.

Despite the heartbreak of what we saw, there is hope. These survivors are finally safe and will get the chance to experience the love and care they deserve. But our work is far from over. The road to recovery for these dogs is long, and they need extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and treatment to overcome the trauma they’ve endured. We are urgently close to reaching our fundraising goal, but we still need your help to get there. Without the necessary funds, we won’t be able to provide the critical support these dogs need to heal and thrive.

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference. With your continued support, we can ensure that these survivors never have to endure such unimaginable suffering again. Please, help us give them the future they deserve.

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5 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Foster a Dog

rescue dog

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Foster a Dog

Why Saying ‘No’ to Fostering Might Be the Biggest Mistake You’ll Ever Make

Fostering a dog is a journey that’s not for everyone—especially if you’re looking for a life of predictable surprises, relaxed chaos, or lonely companionship. So, if you’re teetering on the edge of this uncharted adventure, here are five compelling reasons why fostering a dog might just be the best bad decision you could ever make.

Peaceful Disruption

As a New Yorker, your life is probably perfectly chaotic already, so why invite more peaceful disruption? A foster dog will introduce a steady flow of unpredictable routines into your life, shaking up your status quo in the most organized way possible. You might find yourself enjoying the consistent inconsistency, but beware—it could lead to a calm frenzy you never knew you needed.

The Predictable Surprise

Fostering a dog will fill your life with predictable surprises. You know you’ll be met with wagging tails and joyful greetings every day, but the little moments—like the first time your foster dog trusts you enough to snuggle close or learn a new trick—will catch you off guard in the best possible way. This anticipated unpredictability adds an element of excitement to your routine, reminding you that even when you think you know what to expect, life with a foster dog is full of delightful twists.

The Temporary Commitment

Relationships are hit or miss in New York City, so If you’re not ready for a long-term relationship, fostering offers the perfect temporary commitment. It’s a short-term forever that will test your ability to love and let go. Just when you’ve grown accustomed to the presence of your furry friend, they’ll find their forever home, leaving you in the bittersweet joy of a job well done. If you’re not careful, this fleeting permanence might just make you a repeat offender in the fostering world.

The Lonely Togetherness

It can be hard to make new friends in a place like New York City. Fostering a dog will introduce you to the world of lonely togetherness. You’ll never feel alone, even when you crave solitude, as your foster dog will be your constant companion. This solitary partnership will teach you the art of being alone together, turning your home into a space where quiet company thrives. It’s the kind of loneliness that fills your heart with warmth.

The Simple Complexity

Finally, fostering a dog will add a layer of simple complexity to your life. The daily care of feeding, walking, and nurturing might seem straightforward, but the emotional bond that forms will complicate things in the most beautiful way. This tangled simplicity will challenge your notions of what it means to care for another being, showing you that sometimes, the simplest acts are the most profoundly complicated.

Conclusion: A Conflicted Resolution

So, there you have it—five contradictory reasons why fostering a dog might be the worst best decision you’ll ever make. It’s a journey of peaceful disruption, cost-effective splurges, temporary commitments, lonely togetherness, and simple complexities. If you’re ready to embrace the oxymorons of life, fostering a dog might just be the perfect way to do it.

Fostering a dog from Korean K9 Rescue is a decision that can bring joy, companionship, and love into your home. These dogs are ready and waiting to become a part of your family. Consider fostering a dog from KK9R today! We’ll take care of food, supplies, and vet visits. You supply the loving home. Read more about fostering here.

*We are open to adoptions outside the greater NYC/Metropolitan area. You can learn more about that here, or reach out to our team.*

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The Tosa Inu: A Loyal and Gentle Giant in Need of Rescue

tosa inu with toy

The Tosa Inu: A Loyal and Gentle Giant in Need of Rescue

Why the Tosa Inu Deserves a Second Chance: A Loyal Companion Ready for a New Beginning

At Korean K9 Rescue, we believe every dog deserves a second chance, regardless of size or breed. One remarkable breed we encounter is the Tosa Inu, a strong and loyal companion often misunderstood due to its size and strength. These gentle giants, when given the right care and placement, have the potential to become loving and loyal family members.

Rescued from the Dog Meat Trade

Tosa Inus were, unfortunately, a large part of the dog meat trade due to their docile and easy-to-handle nature. Despite their size, these gentle giants were often seen as manageable, making them frequent victims of this cruel practice. Many of the Tosa Inus rescued by Korean K9 Rescue come from this harsh reality, where they endured unimaginable hardship and neglect. As a result, these dogs may take time to adjust to the loving, caring environments they deserve. With time, patience, and compassionate care, they can heal from their past and begin to trust again. Our team dedicates significant effort to helping these dogs acclimate to their new lives, providing them the support they need to thrive.

Loyal and Devoted Companions

Tosa Inus are known for their loyalty and strong bonds with their caregivers. With time, trust, and patience, they can develop deep, lasting relationships and become loyal companions who stay by your side.

Calm Yet Energetic

Though typically calm in temperament, Tosa Inus are active dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They aren’t suited for a sedentary lifestyle and thrive best in homes that provide daily activity through long walks, playtime, or training sessions. Their size and energy level mean they need a family or individual who can commit to meeting their physical and mental needs.

Potential to Be Great with Families

While every dog is unique, many Tosa Inus have shown the potential to be excellent family pets when introduced to a nurturing and understanding home. An ideal home would be one with adults only (teens are okay), other medium to large dogs, and no cats or prey animals. Though their history may mean they need extra time and care to feel entirely comfortable, they can be affectionate and gentle. Families who are patient and willing to work with them may find a loyal and loving companion.

Strong Yet Gentle

Though muscular and powerful, Tosa Inus can have a surprisingly gentle side. With the right combination of regular exercise, training, and structure, they often thrive in urban and suburban environments, bringing calm and stability to their surroundings.

Adopting a Tosa Inu from Korean K9 Rescue means you’re not just gaining a loyal companion—you’re giving a dog a second chance at life. We are committed to supporting the dogs and their adopters throughout the adoption process, offering guidance to ensure a smooth transition. Every rescue journey is different, but with time and care, many of these dogs have shown incredible growth and love in their new homes.

If you’re considering adding a big, loyal, and active dog to your family, the Tosa Inu might be the perfect match. Reach out to Korean K9 Rescue to learn more about how you can give one of these beautiful dogs a loving home.

Adopting a dog from Korean K9 Rescue is a decision that can bring joy, companionship, and love into your home. These dogs are ready and waiting to become a part of your family. Consider adopting a dog from KK9R today!

*We are open to adoptions outside the greater NYC/Metropolitan area. You can learn more about that here, or reach out to our team.*

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KK9R Rescue Dogs Set a New Guinness World Record on September 5th!

Largest dog walk Guinness world record

KK9R Rescue Dogs Set a New Guinness World Record on September 5th!

Champions of Survival, Ready for Forever Homes!

September 5th, 2024, will be a day we’ll always remember at Korean K9 Rescue (KK9R). We are thrilled to announce that 38 of our rescue dogs broke the Guinness World Record, setting a new standard of hope and resilience for dogs rescued from unimaginable conditions. We beat the record for the most dogs walked simultaneously by one individual for 1.2km!

This historic event was a celebration of the dogs and a testament to the dedication, love, and perseverance of the KK9R team and volunteers in both South Korea and the United States. 

A Special Thanks to Bonk

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Bonk, whose support and partnership made this milestone possible. Bonk’s commitment to helping rescue dogs find better lives has been instrumental in this event, and their involvement was crucial in getting these 38 record-breaking dogs the care, rehabilitation, and attention they needed. Through partnerships like this, we continue to provide hope and a second chance to dogs who have endured unimaginable hardships.

Behind the Scenes: Teamwork Across Continents

The road to this achievement was challenging. From our team in Korea, where the dogs were carefully rehabilitated, to the unwavering support of our volunteers in the U.S., everyone played a critical role in making this record-breaking moment possible. 

Each of these 38 dogs has a story of survival—many were rescued from dog meat farms, high-kill shelters, horrible hoarding situations, or abandoned on the streets of South Korea. Through the dedication of our team, these dogs have overcome incredible odds and are now ready to find their forever homes in New York City and Los Angeles.

The Power of Community Support

This moment would not have been possible without the incredible support of our volunteers and the KK9R family. Every volunteer who helped care for the dogs and every supporter who shared our mission contributed to this achievement. 

But the journey is far from over! These record-breaking pups are looking for their forever homes, and we need your help. You can continue participating in this monumental event by helping us spread the word about their adoption. Please like, comment, and share our record-breaking reel on social media. With your support, we can give these fantastic dogs the happy, loving homes they deserve.

Find Your Perfect Match—Adopt One of Our Record-Breaking Dogs

If you’re interested in adopting one of these incredible dogs, you can meet your match by visiting our Bonk adoption page here. There, you’ll find detailed information on each dog, including their unique stories and how to start the adoption process. These pups are ready to find their forever homes, and you could be the one to welcome them into your family!

A Milestone for the Future

This world record represents more than just a number. It symbolizes what can be accomplished when people unite for a cause they believe in. It celebrates. As we continue our mission to end the dog meat trade and rescue dogs from abusive environments, this achievement reminds us of the power of perseverance, hope, and trust in our beloved dogs, whom we care for deeply. We also embrace rescue dogs’ immense potential and spirit and what they can achieve through acts of kindness and compassion. Let’s celebrate this win, but more importantly, keep moving forward together, ensuring that each of these 38 incredible dogs finds a forever home.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this journey. Thank you for being so supportive, and please help us spread the word about their adoption.

Adopting a dog from Korean K9 Rescue is a decision that can bring joy, companionship, and love into your home. These dogs are ready and waiting to become a part of your family. Consider adopting a dog from KK9R today!

*We are open to adoptions outside the greater NYC/Metropolitan area. You can learn more about that here, or reach out to our team.*