The dogs arrived at Miami International Airport this weekend, having been saved from imminent death, and met their new families for the first time.
"It's the happiest day of my 2020," said Katie Brown, one of the new dog owners.
As reported: Fakta.today
"The fact that we waited so long for these dogs to arrive, it was such a long journey, and now we have them here, it's just amazing."
"That's what rescue is about. Taking the time for the unconditional love they give us."
The dogs were brought by Golden Rescue South Florida, an organization dedicated to rescuing Golden Retrievers across the country and now worldwide.
On this occasion, a rescue center in China reached out to the Florida-based organization for help.
After six months of planning and fundraising to generate the required $60,000, the puppies were finally brought over. Transporting each dog costs at least $2,600.
However, the task of bringing the dogs to the USA was not easy.
"It was very stressful," said rescuer coordinator Kristine Minerva to WSVN.
"We had over 40 hours of delays. The dogs were supposed to arrive on Friday at 4:30 p.m., and unfortunately, their flight had a mechanical issue, so they were delayed," she said.
"With the help of the Taiwan-based Animal Protection Association, PETA, and the Chinese rescue service we worked with, we made it happen," Minerva stated.
"These dogs are currently designated for meat in China. So, it took us six months."
"These dogs have gone through traumatic experiences, so some of them really don't know how to behave properly," explained Minerva.
"So, it will require a lot of patience, a lot of training, and a lot of dedication to get the dog to good behavior."
It involves a lot of paperwork and money.
Golden Rescue stated that they must ensure that the owner and home are suitable for the rescued puppy and that the accommodation is suitable for the dogs.
All 20 Golden Retrievers have found new homes across the country - truly new leashes for life.
As we wrote earlier: A homeless man bought an abandoned house for $1,500 and spent ten years renovating it for his wife
