For the past four years, Buket Özgünlü has devoted her life to rescuing and caring for stray dogs through her nonprofit, Paws Holding on to Life Association, in Turkey.
Today, her sanctuary is home to 560 dogs — many of whom have disabilities that once made life on the streets unbearable.
“All of them were rescued,” Özgünlü told The Dodo. “Most are paralyzed. Some were shot, beaten, or abandoned. Every one of them has a painful past.”
But now, thanks to Özgünlü’s love and dedication, they have a safe, hopeful future.
Inspired by her own father’s disability, Özgünlü has always felt a special calling to care for disabled animals.
“They need us more,” she said. “So I try to give them everything I can.”
Her countryside sanctuary offers these pups space to run, play, and roam in wheelchairs — but Özgünlü wanted to give them something even more exciting: a taste of adventure.
So, she got creative. Using barrels fitted with wheels, she built a one-of-a-kind “dog train” to take her special crew on scenic rides beyond the sanctuary.
“I’d been dreaming of a project like this for a long time,” she said. “I was so happy to finally make it happen.”
Now, the dogs ride happily through nearby towns, taking in new sights and smells — their tails wagging, faces beaming with joy.
And it's not just the dogs who love the experience — the local community lights up too. Smiles, waves, and curious glances follow the dog train wherever it goes.
“People really enjoy seeing them, and that makes me even happier,” Özgünlü said.
Once forgotten, these resilient dogs are now impossible to ignore — their spirits shining brightly for all to see.
Though the work of caring for so many dogs can be exhausting and often thankless, Özgünlü finds her reward in the simple joy of their happiness.
“I know how much they need this,” she said. “And seeing them smile is everything.”
