As if it wasn’t enough that Robin spent two years saving the citizens of Gotham City on Batman, it turns out that behind the scenes, Burt Ward was every bit the superhero he played on television.

At a young age, Ward became one of the most famous actors on television. He starred as Robin in the popular superhero series, Batman, alongside co-star Adam West. However, acting wasn’t Ward’s only passion. He also had a deep love of animals.

According to an interview with The Daily Oklahoman, the Batman actor started the Gentle Giants charity with his wife, Tracy Posner Ward. "I was the Caped Crusader, but now I'm the Canine Crusader,” said the actor.

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In the interview, Ward stated that Gentle Giants had rescued over 15,500 dogs in just 22 years. "We pay for everything and take no salary,” said Ward. “This is our charity."

Not only did Ward help socialize and train the dogs, but many lived in the Ward home while awaiting adoption. "Right now, we have 24 dogs between fifteen and twenty-six years old,” said Ward. “But there's nothing magical; it's all based on quality and science."

Taking care of so many furry friends may feel overwhelming to some, but Ward’s love of animals instilled a determination in him rarely seen outside of superheroes.

"In our hearts, we know it's really important what we're doing,” said Ward. “We're involved in other charitable work, but this is our daily hands-on cause."