Wags & Walks Nashville, a 501(c)(3) non-profit dog rescue organization, is celebrating a historic milestone. In 2025, the organization saved 1,500 dogs, the most in its history. This record-breaking achievement reflects the unwavering dedication of the Wags & Walks Nashville team and community, who worked tirelessly to give every dog a second chance at life.
Throughout the year, Wags & Walks Nashville rescued dogs of all kinds, from critical medical cases and pregnant mamas to puppies, seniors, and everything in between. Each of the 1,500 dogs received comprehensive veterinary care, individualized support, and the resources needed to begin their journey toward a loving forever home.
“Shelters across the region are facing unprecedented overcrowding, and this milestone reflects the hard work required to meet the need,” said Kathryn Hurley, Founder of Wags & Walks Nashville. “Every dog we saved this year represents countless hours of care, advocacy, and community support, and we’re deeply grateful to everyone who helped make it possible.”
To close out this historic year on a high note, Abby and Dan Smyers are stepping up to support Wags & Walks Nashville and its Home For The Holidays campaign. The couple has pledged to match all donations up to $25,000, doubling the impact of every contribution and helping ensure lifesaving work continues through the holiday season and into the new year.
“Supporting rescue work has always been close to our hearts, and I have been honored to work closely with Wags & Walks Nashville over the years,” said Abby Smyers. “We are so happy to be able to contribute to the meaningful, hands-on work they are doing for dogs and our community.”
With this generous matching gift, Wags & Walks Nashville is calling on the community to get involved. Fosters, adopters, and donors are urgently needed to help relieve overcrowded shelters and get more dogs out of kennels and into safe, loving environments – providing warmth, stability, and care during the holidays and beyond.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to help amplify their impact and encourage others to get involved this holiday season,” said Dan Smyers. “1,500 lives saved in a single year is truly incredible, and we are proud to support such a great organization.”
With the support of the Smyers and the broader community, Wags & Walks Nashville looks ahead to the new year with renewed momentum and a continued commitment to saving dogs in need in Middle Tennessee.
For more information or to donate, visit www.wagsandwalks.org/donate.