In 2012, Thayne Hamilton was encouraged by friends and family to enter a contest on Seattle-based Talk It Up TV. The winner of the $1,000 prize would be chosen by votes. When the TV station read Thayne’s story, they immediately knew he’d be the winner.

Thayne and his wife Christine shared in their love of dogs. They were so passionate, in fact, that over the past 10 years they’d taken in at least 20 rescue dogs at their home in Orcas Island, WA. Their home became the Grey Muzzle Rescue. These dogs were abandoned, unwanted and horribly neglected and abused. Not to mention, they were senior dogs, so it was likely they’d be euthanized at many shelters. But Thayne and Christine cared for these dogs like they were family, and they did it all on their modest, fixed income.

But one day, tragedy struck. Christine received a terminal diagnosis and decided to let nature take its course. It was more important to her to save the house and home for the dogs than to pay for her hospital treatments. Thayne honored his wife’s wishes and never stopped caring for dogs. At the time this video was shot, Thayne was supporting nine dogs out of his own pocket.

In the video below, Thayne invited cameras into Grey Muzzle Rescue, where Talk It Up TV gives him the surprise of his life. He and his dogs certainly earned it. What an amazing video and even more amazing family! The last time I was this inspired by an act of kindness, it was when a small-town police officer picked up a $400 lunch tab for a grieving family.

With more than approximately 7.6 million companion animals entering animal shelters nationwide every year, pets need us more than ever. Dogs can bring us all so much joy and just want to give love and be loved. If you’re inspired and ready to welcome a pet into your family, start your search on Petfinder.

Thayne Hamilton won a contest presented by a Seattle news channel. He was ecstatic when he and his dog rescue heard the news, and he then opened his doors for the cameras and the rest of the world…

The dogs under his care are senior dogs who have experienced lifetimes of neglect and abuse. When no one else would take them in, Thayne and his wife Christine gave them a second chance.

Sadly, Christine passed away, leaving the rescue house to Thayne. He built a graveyard and memorial so that Christine could be surrounded by her beloved dogs who also passed over the Rainbow Bridge.

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Christine’s legacy should be shared by all, so please SHARE this video with your friends on Facebook.