Charlie's Bathtime Bliss

Have you ever seen a dog so happy and content that it makes your heart melt? Well, that's exactly what happened when we stumbled upon this uplifting video of Charlie, a chocolate Labrador, enjoying his first warm bath after being rescued.

The video, posted by Daliana Deleon (@thatdoggirl) from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has already garnered over 2.3 million views, and it's easy to see why. Charlie can be seen with a look of pure bliss on his face as warm water is poured over him. The caption reads, "He was literally in paradise."

TikTok users were clearly touched by Charlie's story, with comments like "Charlie baby, you are safe" and "That poor sweet baby probably hasn't been that relaxed ever. So glad he feels safe with you." It just goes to show the incredible impact that rescuing a dog can have on both the animal and the humans involved.

• The Importance of Rescue

Florida has seen an increase in stray and former pet dogs in recent years. Unfortunately, Hurricane Ian, which hit the state at the end of September 2022, only added to the problem. The storm, classified as a Category 4 with wind speeds up to 155 miles per hour, forced over 1.75 million residents to evacuate their homes, leaving many unable to care for their animals.

The Humane Society Naples stepped in to help by airlifting homeless cats and dogs out of the state to free up space in local shelters. The society's plan was to fly out approximately 450 animals in total, and we're sure that Charlie was one of them.

• Why Adopt, Not Shop

If you're considering getting a dog, adoption is the way to go. Not only are you potentially saving a dog from euthanasia, but you're also helping to fight against cruel breeding practices and giving a deserving animal a second chance. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has a whole list of reasons why you should adopt not shop.