Two Great Danes named Phoebe and Tabitha are beginning a new chapter after spending years living in unsafe and uncertain conditions in rural Georgia.
The pair had been housed at an overcrowded shelter where they lacked consistent care, protection, and supervision. Over time, the dogs wandered from the property in search of food and safety. Their situation escalated when a nearby farmer found them roaming his land and threatened to shoot them if they returned. At that point, their lives were in immediate danger.
Word of the situation reached local animal advocates, who moved quickly. A veterinary technician and an animal control officer traveled to the area to intervene. When they arrived, Phoebe and Tabitha reacted in a way that surprised even experienced rescuers. The dogs ran toward them and pressed close, as if recognizing help had finally arrived.
“They clung to the first human who showed them compassion after a life spent just trying to survive,” Hounds in Pounds wrote in a Facebook post.
The rescuers secured the dogs and transported them to one of Hounds in Pounds’ veterinary partners. There, Phoebe and Tabitha were examined and treated for medical issues that had gone unaddressed for a long time. Their condition reflected years of neglect, but veterinarians said both dogs showed strong signs of resilience.
With medical care underway, the focus shifted to recovery and placement. Phoebe and Tabitha are now stable and improving, and the organization is actively seeking foster homes to help them continue healing outside of a clinical environment.
“We urgently need foster homes to provide a safe and loving place where they can find peace and calm while waiting for their forever families,” Hounds in Pounds shared.
Despite their large size, those caring for the dogs describe them as calm and manageable. They walk well on a leash and adjust easily to handling. The rescue noted that Phoebe and Tabitha can be fostered together or separately, depending on what is available.
“These girls aren’t just stunning, they’re affectionate, gentle and deeply grateful, full of the soul and softness Great Danes are known for,” the organization wrote.
Rescuers say the dogs’ behavior reflects how quickly they respond to stability and kindness. After years of surviving on their own, Phoebe and Tabitha are now experiencing routine care, regular meals, and human attention without fear of being turned away.
While they still have progress to make, their situation has changed dramatically in a short amount of time. They are no longer at risk of being harmed, and they are no longer alone.
Hounds in Pounds continues to advocate for foster placements and eventual permanent homes for both dogs. The organization also encourages community support to help cover ongoing veterinary care and recovery needs for Phoebe, Tabitha, and other dogs in similar situations.
For now, the two Great Danes are safe, cared for, and surrounded by people committed to protecting them. After years of uncertainty, Phoebe and Tabitha can finally rest, knowing they will not be abandoned again.
This wonderful organization rescued my dog, Rory, and we are eternally grateful. Please consider donating to their cause. Thank you, Hounds in Pounds, for all your hard work!
