Marley’s Mutts

Back in 2008, Zach Skow was diagnosed with end-stage liver disease, the result of lifelong alcohol abuse. And it was the prospect of rescuing dogs—specifically, dogs who were as scorned, despised and rejected as he was in that state—that made him decide to get healthy and live. He soon launched Tehachapi-based Marley's Mutts, to rescue and heal the dogs who didn't fare so well in the system: "The giant mastiffs, the mangled and mangy mutts, the aggressive and the scared." And, based on his own experience, helping the dogs heal and move on to a better life had a way of healing the human helpers as well. Currently healing up in a foster home is the lovely Malala here, a former street dog rescued from the meat trade in Thailand and now, at 6, learning to be an American dog. After spending her youth on the run, Malala is now ready for a life of leisure, and seeks a comfy couch and a loving human.