An 8-month-old Lab-American pit bull mix named Rudolph has been given a much-deserved and miraculous second chance at life.

Rudolph was being housed at an overcrowded shelter in Oklahoma when he was selected to be put down.

To the surprise of veterinarians, when they returned to the room after administering what was supposed to be a lethal dose of euthanasia, Rudolph seemed perfectly fine. He was then located to Kings Harvest Pet Rescue No Kill Shelter in Davenport, Iowa.

Rudolph’s photo caught the attention of Jacob Hommer, who traveled two-and-a-half hours to meet Rudolph, hoping to relocate him to a forever home with a veteran in Colorado.

This special story reminds us that resorting to euthanasia just because there doesn’t seem to be enough room for a perfectly healthy animal is a tragedy, because that animal, in fact, belongs somewhere.

The miracle dog has been adopted, but details about his forever family are being withheld until he’s officially taken up residence at his new home. For now, enjoy getting to know Rudolph with this video!