Dan & Shay’s Dan Smyers and his wife Abby are helping make the holidays brighter for dogs in need across Middle Tennessee. In honor of Wags & Walks Nashville’s Home For The Holidays campaign, the couple has pledged to match all donations up to $25,000, which in turn doubles the contributions and helps the 501(c)(3) non-profit dog rescue organization continue its lifesaving work.
Introduction
Their generous contribution comes at a critical time, as the rescue reveals that animal shelters across Middle Tennessee continue to battle overcrowding. Taking notice of this challenge, Wags & Walks Nashville is encouraging the community to follow the couple’s lead by stepping up through fostering, adopting, or donating to help get dogs out of shelters and into safe, stable homes, especially during the busy holiday season.
“Supporting rescue work has always been close to our hearts, and I have been honored to work closely with Wags & Walks Nashville over the years,” said Abby Smyers. “We are so happy to be able to contribute to the meaningful, hands-on work they are doing for dogs and our community.”
The holiday campaign coincides with a landmark year for Wags & Walks Nashville. In 2025, the nonprofit rescue reached a new milestone by saving a whopping 1,500 dogs, the highest total in its history. This incredible feat was made possible thanks to the dedication of its staff, volunteers, and community.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to help amplify their impact and encourage others to get involved this holiday season,” adds Dan Smyers. “1,500 lives saved in a single year is truly incredible, and we are proud to support such a great organization.”
Over the course of the year, the organization took in dogs of every age and background, including urgent medical cases, senior dogs, pregnant females, and puppies. Each animal that came into the organization received medical attention, personalized care, and the support needed to prepare for life in a forever home.
Founder Kathryn Hurley says the record-breaking number reflects both the growing need for homes and the tireless effort that takes place every day behind the scenes.
“Shelters across the region are facing unprecedented overcrowding, and this milestone reflects the hard work required to meet the need,” she explained. “Every dog we saved this year represents countless hours of care, advocacy, and community support, and we’re deeply grateful to everyone who helped make it possible.”
Walks & Wags Nashville has already helped so many dogs receive the love and care that they deserve and with the contributions from the Smyers and the surrounding community, the organization is hopeful going into the new year. In 2026, the rescues hopes to continiues expanding its impact as part of the mission to save dogs across Middle Tennessee.