Dog Rescued During Hurricane Helene Now Welcomes Customers at Greensboro Hardware Store

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Nearly a year after being rescued from the devastation of Hurricane Helene, a dog named Kojak has found a new purpose as the official greeter at a Greensboro hardware store.

From Hurricane Rescue to Second Chance

Kojak, a 2-year-old Anatolian Shepherd, was among thousands of animals stranded across western North Carolina when Hurricane Helene struck. He was taken in by the Asheville Humane Society before being evacuated by the Red Dog Farm Animal Rescue Network, which flew dozens of pets to safety in the Triad.

Animal specialist Taylor Dehorty recalled the moment Kojak arrived by plane:

“A lot of them were scared… A lot of them were anxious, but he really wasn’t. He was there with his tail wagging.”

A Perfect Fit for the Job

After 12 weeks of training, Kojak was placed at the Nighthawk Ace Hardware Store. Store manager Christina Millikan said she immediately knew he was the right fit:

“He’s just a lovable big teddy bear. He loves everybody. There is not a mean bone in this dog’s body.”

Kojak’s daily role is simple but powerful: greeting customers with wagging energy and putting smiles on their faces.

Symbol of Resilience

Rescue leaders say Kojak’s story shows the resilience of both people and animals in the aftermath of tragedy. Lauren Riehle, executive director of RDFARN, emphasized:

“Kojak’s story is about resilience and overcoming tragedy. I think through it all, he had a fantastic personality.”

Kojak will be on duty for the store’s grand opening event this Saturday at 10 a.m.

From stranded rescue dog to beloved store greeter, Kojak’s journey is a reminder that even after disaster, there are second chances filled with hope.

Would you like to see more rescued animals given community roles like Kojak’s? Share your thoughts with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.