Rescue Organizations are made up of people much like your parents, teachers and other adults you know.  You may even know people who rescue animals.  These are people with 9 to 5 jobs, who decide to give their free time, money and homes to help homeless animals throughout the city.

These courageous men and women visit the shelters regularly.  They look through the adoptable areas and the stray areas.  These men and women face grim decisions each day:  How much room do they have available?, Which pet  can be rescued?,  What about just one more?, Is there enough money for the medical attention this pet needs?  Will this be money well spent?

It is through these long efforts, that many of the animals get a new chance at a happier life in a loving home.  The stories we are bringing you this month would not be possible without the efforts of people in rescue and foster homes.

How many rescue groups are in the Austin Area?
Austin has around 300 rescue groups in the area.

Why are there so many groups, are they all needed?
Sadly, the Town Lake Animal Center alone takes in over 26,000 animals in a year.   These animals are either strays or unwanted pets.  The Center only has room for 500 pets.  A state law mandates that animals can be held only so long.  Most places will try to accommodate as many pets as space allows.  In many instances, room does not permit for extending the holding period.  If a rescue group steps in, the pet can wait a much longer time to find the right home.

Where are all the pets coming from?
Many are pets that owners no longer want.  Sometimes a person is moving and cannot take the pet.  Other times illness forces an owner to make a hard decision.  And there are times that a person just did not realize the time and effort that a pet demands.  During puppy and kitten season, spring and early summer, all of the area centers and rescues are overrun with unwanted pets.  Of course, stray animals are also taken in to the animal control facilities around the area.

So what is a day in the life of a rescuer:

Other duties include:

What can you do to make a difference?
If you want to add a new pet to your household, adopt a homeless pet.  If you would like a purebred pet, many area rescues are devoted to a specific breed.  If they do not have exactly what you are looking for, they can network with others around the country to help find the perfect pet.  Don't forget Mixed Breed Rescue, they have many adorable dogs and puppies just waiting for the right home.

These are the people who are making Austin a better place for the pets of the future.  It is a lot of work and there are times that it is extremely difficult.  But the rewards of seeing a pet go from homeless, with no hope for the future, to a new loving home, is one that cannot be matched.