Daniel, a 5-year-old beagle mix stray found in Florence, Alabama was placed into a shelter by animal control officials. After he was not claimed or adopted, he was sadly put into a gas chamber to be put down.

On October 3, Daniel was among 18 dogs slated for euthanization via carbon monoxide. But after the animal control officer went back to the chamber, all the dogs were dead, except Daniel.

When the nonprofit group Eleventh Hour Rescue learned of Daniel’s miraculous story, they brought him to New Jersey, where they are looking for a family to take care of him.

Every year, around 4 million cats and dogs, most in perfect health and good temperament, are killed in America’s animal shelters.

Let’s hope the story of Daniel, the miracle dog encourages more people to adopt dogs from shelters.

WATCH the Video of Daniel below: