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DENVER — Eighteen Golden Retrievers were flown into Denver this week, as part of a rescue operation.

The dogs, ranging in age, were living on the side of a freezing mountainside near Istanbul, Turkey.

“This is our 3rd rescue operation,” said Kevin Shipley, Executive Director of the Golden Retriever Rescue of the Rockies (GRRR).

Members of the organization sponsored the rescue operation by raising thousands of dollars to fly the Golden Retrievers to Colorado.

According to Shipley, there’s an over abundance of Golden Retrievers in Turkey and many people in that country look down upon the breed; forcing many dogs to live on the streets or in the wilderness.

“It’s not a good situation,” Shipley added.

All 18 dogs flown into Denver this week are doing well (health wise). Once they’ve spent some time at GRRR’s facility in Arvada, they’ll be available for adoption.

If you’re interested in adopting one, you can apply on GRRR’s website. Just click here. 

To see a behind-the-scenes look at the pups’ arrival at Denver International Airport, watch Kevin Torres‘ “Unique 2 Colorado” segment.