Clarence lives by the golden rule of treating others the way you want to be treated. To the sweet 4-year-old rescue dog, that means giving hugs to everyone he meets and holding on to his caretakers in hopes that they won’t ever leave him.

Clarence had never known home comforts. His entire childhood had been spent outside in his family’s yard before they abandoned him in a Walmart parking lot.

The golden retriever-mix met two other abandoned dogs there — a German shepherd and a Chihuahua-mix — and began following them around.

Clarence and his German shepherd pal were ultimately apprehended by animal control, who notified his owner. Clarence was placed on the euthanasia list when his owner declined to come and get him.

Fortunately, Hounds In Pounds came in just in time to save Clarence and the German shepherd and place them in loving homes. Despite having had a terrible start in life, Clarence has no grudges against people and is full of kindness.

In 2022, resolve to make the world a better place for pets. PetSmart Charities works with local groups to improve the lives of pets via adoption, increased access to veterinary care, and disaster assistance. Donate today to make a life-changing difference for dogs and their families.

Today, pets offer companionship, emotional support, reduced feelings of loneliness, and reduced stress levels. It also contributes to high self-esteem and positive emotions, especially for children. And although many people enjoy the company of their dog or cat and would never think of getting rid of their pet, consider it a family member.

However, in many cases, coexistence between humans and animals is not always successful, and in some cases, the relationship does not work out when the family is committed, adoption is their last resort.

There are various reasons why animals are abandoned on the street. Some of these reasons include a lack of time to give them adequate attention, economic hardship, unwanted litters, parenting issues, new family members, or losing their home.