Buffalo Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir had more than football on his mind when he walked into Nickel City Canine Rescue.
The 25-year-old athlete couldn’t stop smiling as he knelt down to greet 19 dogs who, just days earlier, had been facing an unthinkable fate: euthanasia.
The pups had been transported from Clarke County Animal Shelter, which had planned to put them down simply to free up space.
But thanks to Nickel City Canine Rescue — and Shakir’s helping hands — these dogs’ stories changed forever.
“For the very first time, they slept with full bellies, warm blankets, and peaceful hearts. No more fear, no more uncertainty,” the rescue shared.
Shakir didn’t come alone. He was joined by his mother, Mona Tuamoheloa-Shakir, and two close friends, all eager to shower the new arrivals with love.
It wasn’t his first time showing up for Buffalo’s rescue community, either.
Just one day before, his foundation had hosted its second annual adoption event in nearby Amherst, NY, with eight local rescues participating.
Nineteen dogs found homes that day — 18 of them from Nickel City.
The wide receiver’s face lit up when he heard that a new transport of dogs was coming in.
“He said he would love to come help again,” the rescue recalled. And he meant it.
Shakir’s compassion for rescue dogs runs deep.
Back in May, he and his wife Sayler partnered with Nickel City Canine Rescue to save 26 dogs — one of whom stole his heart.
A sweet pup named Daphnee, now Missy, joined their family.
She quickly became what the rescue fondly calls their “good luck charm.”
For Nickel City and the animals they serve, Shakir has become more than just a football player.
He’s a lifeline. “We truly cannot put into words how grateful we are to Khalil & Sayler,” the rescue posted.
“Ever since adopting from NCCR, they’ve never stopped giving back.”
The video of Shakir’s joyful reunion with the 19 rescues has already gained nearly 20,000 likes, along with a flood of heartfelt comments from the community.
“Khalil and his family is making such a difference in the lives of so many dogs.
Mom has to be proud of her son and his huge heart!” one fan wrote.
Another added: “If only there were more people like the Shakirs!
Two humble, loving humans who truly value and love our abandoned and beloved canines!”
Others even challenged more athletes to step up:
“If every football player saved dogs and cats, imagine the joy those helpless animals would feel.”
For Shakir, though, it’s not about recognition — it’s about saving lives, one wagging tail at a time.
