Dave Bautista Wants A 'Happy Place' For Rescue Dogs This Giving Tuesday

Dave Bautista, renowned for his role in "Guardians of the Galaxy," is channeling his affection for animals into a noble cause. 

Collaborating with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals [ASPCA], the retired professional wrestler is leveraging Giving Tuesday to shine a spotlight on the plight of thousands of rescue animals seeking homes.

Together, Dave Bautista and the non-profit organization will embark on a mission to raise awareness and make a positive impact on many shelter pets.

Commencing on November 28, the ASPCA will unveil a heartfelt message from Bautista in honor of Giving Tuesday — a global initiative encouraging philanthropy on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving. 

In a preview of the superstar's impassioned call to action, he is seen providing a glimpse into his advocacy alongside a touching portrayal of his four rescue pit bulls. In the clip, the 54-year-old shared a poignant perspective, stating: 

"My home is where my dogs are because there is just such a sense of love. I feel like wherever they are there's this sense of normalcy which is hard for me to attain these days." 

He went on to express that amidst a hectic schedule, his dogs served as his "happy place," and offered insight into his rescue history. In his words:

"My first rescue dogs were Ollie and Maggie, and I've had them for about five years. I adopted them, and after becoming so connected with them, I started to be more aware of how many dogs were in shelters and needed homes."

The six-time world champion added that in exchange for the dogs getting "food, water, and love," viewers would "get so much in return" when they adopt pets.

Bautista appealed to fans to either donate money or their time by volunteering at pet shelters of their choice. He wrapped up the video by disclosing that he has a decade-long commitment to donating to the ASPCA "because they help families," passionately emphasizing, "Please give on Giving Tuesday."

Going by the responses in the comment section, the solemn scenes contained in the nearly two-minute reel touched the hearts of many who watched it via YouTube. 

"I concur wholeheartedly. My dogs are everything to me. No one give you complete and utter love like that of a dog," one onlooker wrote, as a second gratefully declared, "Thank you Dave, for being a Guardian for one of the most misunderstood breeds, pitties! No bad dogs, but sadly, so many bad owners!"

A third fan claimed, "What a sweet man. I love him even more now!," while a fourth effused, "Big Dave is the best. I will always support him and the ASPCA," and a fifth chimed in, "You are a special kind person. Thank you for what you do."

Still in the same spirit, a sixth online personality pointed out, "What a great guy....he is making a difference to these animals."

Although he is getting praised for doing right by dogs, it is worth noting that Bautista has faced his share of challenges starting from his difficult childhood. 

As he detailed in his book, "Batista Unleashed," the father of three spent his formative years in the Washington D.C. area when it was characterized as one of the poorest regions in the United States during the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. 

The "Blade Runner 2049" actor painted a vivid picture of a challenging environment, describing an era where homelessness and corruption were rampant, eroding trust even in the police for honest citizens.

In one instance, the former "WrestleMania XXX" headliner casually revealed that three individuals lost their lives on his doorstep before he reached the age of nine. Bautista also faced problems with gym admission, once describing his 20s as a period he dubs "reverse anorexia" during an interview.

Trapped in a repetitive cycle, he worked nocturnal shifts as a bouncer, dedicated extensive hours to the gym, and, upon returning home, would sleep through the day, only to restart the cycle.

The four-time World Heavyweight Championship star adhered to this demanding schedule for a decade, and unfortunately, it took a toll on his family's financial stability. Additionally, Bautista had a difficult time merging his past demanding lifestyle as a top WWE superstar with his private life, leading to difficulties in balancing the two.

Per Grunge, the "Army of the Dead" performer candidly acknowledged that the constant year-round travel with WWE took a toll on more than one of his marriages — he has been married and divorced three times. 

"Throughout my wrestling career I just was never home. I lost a marriage with someone who was a very, very close friend of mine. We still remain friends, but just never being home just tore our marriage apart," he divulged.