Herschel, a German Shepherd, had a difficult first five years of his life, spending most of it chained up in a neglected backyard. Rescuers discovered his mangled teeth, a testament to his desperate attempts to break free from the metal chain that was restraining him.
His previous owner recognized the need for a better life for Herschel, and turned him over to Michelson Found Animals, an animal rescue organization that provides necessary treatment and medical care. Despite several adoptions and returns over the next six months, Herschel struggled to adapt due to his lack of socialization.
To give Herschel a special day out, Michelson Found Animals reached out to Rocky Kanaka, host of Dog's Day Out. Rocky, on a mission to bring joy to dogs with difficult pasts, treats Hershel to delicious food, snow playtime and a road trip to his potential forever home in Los Angeles.
During the trip, Rocky stops at a beach, revealing the ocean to Hershel for the first time. The excited German Shepherd barked with pure joy as he walked along the sand. Rocky, who was equally thrilled, played with Herschel in the waves, expressing his joy at watching the dog's happiness.
"He loves it, and I'm not letting him go because he might swim to San Diego for all I know," Rocky said.
Herschel now resides happily with his new mother in Los Angeles, and enjoys frequent trips to the beach. After the hardships he endures, this resilient pup deserves all the happiness the ocean brings. Herschel's story is a testament to his resilience and sweetness despite the challenges he faced. Watch the video below to see Herschel's newfound happiness by the water.