Mario Rodriguez had no business adopting a dog from across the country. He was in the middle of a work trip in California when he stumbled upon Hickory’s photo—a happy, smiling pit bull set to be euthanized in New York.
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But logic didn’t matter. Mario, who grew up with pit bulls, couldn’t ignore Hickory’s plight. So he made the impossible drive—2,800 miles straight—while frantically calling the shelter to ensure Hickory was still alive.
The moment they met, Hickory exploded with joy, covering Mario in kisses as if thanking him. At home, Hickory quickly became part of the pack, but when Mario had to return to work, the pup made it clear: he wasn’t staying behind. Now, Hickory rides alongside Mario in the truck, turning rest stops into playtime and proving that some rescues are simply meant to be.
