Rudy and Happy were hours away from death when In Defense of Animals, a California-based international animal rights and rescue organization dedicated to protecting the rights, welfare and habitats of animals, saved the pups as part of a rescue mission.

They landed at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport after a 7,000 mile journey from South Korea, just a few weeks after In Defense of Animals rescued the pair, plus five other dogs from the dog meat trade. All seven dogs are now safe and well at In Defense of Animals’ Hope Animal Sanctuary in Grenada, Mississippi, and awaiting adoption into loving U.S. homes.

“We are so glad this sweet pair escaped the horrific fate of being made into dog meat,” said In Defense of Animals President, Dr. Marilyn Kroplick. “Happy, Rudy and the ‘Slaughterhouse 5’ are ambassadors who represent millions of dogs brutally slaughtered and eaten each year. Culture and tradition are no excuse to force any animal to suffer to satisfy our appetites.”

The dogs’ escape was dramatic, coming only weeks before the start of Korea’s month-long Boknal dog meat feast.

In what dog lovers (and so many rescuers) have come to see as the sweet, forgiving nature of these lovely animals, Happy and Rudy greeted their liberators with tails wagging. Happy and Rudy are Korean Jindo dogs, known for their fierce loyalty and and brave nature.

“We are looking for patient, experienced guardians who can help Rudy and Happy overcome their traumatic past and enjoy full, rich lives,” said In Defense of Animals’ Hope Animal Sanctuary Operations Manager, Sharon Stone. “Please get in touch if you are able to offer a loving forever-home.”

Apply to rescue a dog from In Defense of Animals Hope Animal Sanctuary via email at: adoptions@idausa.org or call 662-392-8939.