Hugs was rescued in 2023 by Animal Pad from a scam rescue in Ensenada, MX- where he and hundreds of other dogs were living in deplorable conditions. All of the dogs were malnourished, living amongst their own feces, and in kennels far too small for them.

Despite the unimaginable neglect he had suffered, he met rescuers with a smile and a hug every day (hence his name.) He quickly became a fan favorite and was transferred to the rescue headquarters in San Diego.

On his first night with his fosters, things took an unpredictable turn as Hugs decided it would be a great idea to jump off a two story balcony. There was no clear rhyme or reason to the impulsive decision, and he took the plunge while right next to his fosters. He landed on all four feet, sustaining serious injuries to three of his legs. He was immediately rushed to the emergency clinic.