Paw Place Rescue inc.

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  • Hurt People, Hurt People: Breaking the Cycle of Bullying in Animal Rescue

    Animal rescue is supposed to be about compassion.

    It’s about giving the abandoned a second chance, protecting the vulnerable, and standing in the gap for those who cannot speak for themselves. Yet, somewhere along the way, many of us have discovered a heartbreaking reality: sometimes the deepest wounds in rescue aren’t inflicted by the public; they’re inflicted by each other.

    Recently, I learned something that stopped me in my tracks.

    Someone who has been unkind to me in the rescue world was once treated the very same way when she first entered rescue. She was belittled, excluded, criticized, and made to feel like she didn’t belong.

    It doesn’t excuse what she’s done.

    But it does explain something important.

    The Cycle of Hurt

    There is an old saying: hurt people hurt people.

    When someone enters rescue full of passion and hope, only to be met with gossip, gatekeeping, public humiliation, or relentless criticism, they face a choice.

    They can become the person they needed.

    Or they can become the person who hurt them.

    Unfortunately, some choose the latter, not because they’re evil, but because pain has become their normal. Bullying becomes tradition. Cruelty becomes “just how rescue is.” New volunteers are expected to “earn their place” by surviving the same treatment.

    That’s not leadership.

    That’s trauma being passed from one generation to the next.

    Compassion Without Excusing Behavior

    Understanding someone’s wounds doesn’t mean accepting harmful behavior.

    We can have compassion for what shaped a person while still holding healthy boundaries. We can pray for someone while refusing to participate in toxic dynamics.

    Jesus modeled this perfectly.

    He understood people’s brokenness, yet He never excused sin. He offered grace while calling people toward transformation.

    That’s the balance we should seek.

    Rescue Needs More Mentors and Fewer Gatekeepers

    Imagine how different the rescue community could be if experienced rescuers welcomed newcomers instead of testing them.

    What if questions were answered with patience instead of sarcasm?

    What if mistakes became teaching moments instead of public humiliation?

    What if success was celebrated instead of viewed as competition?

    There are enough homeless animals to unite us. There is no reason for us to become one another’s greatest obstacle.

    Choosing a Different Legacy

    Every one of us has the opportunity to stop the cycle.

    If you’ve been bullied, you don’t have to become a bully.

    If you’ve been excluded, you don’t have to exclude others.

    If you’ve been spoken to harshly, you can choose gentleness.

    The greatest act of strength isn’t getting even.

    It’s refusing to pass your pain on to someone else.

    What Scripture Teaches

    God has much to say about how we treat one another.

    Ephesians 4:31–32

    “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”

    Kindness isn’t weakness. It’s evidence of spiritual maturity.

    Romans 12:18

    “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”

    We cannot control another person’s actions, but we are responsible for our own.

    Galatians 6:9

    “Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

    Rescue work is exhausting. Discouragement is real. But we must never allow exhaustion to become an excuse for treating others poorly.

    Proverbs 15:1

    “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

    Words have the power to heal or to deepen wounds.

    Micah 6:8

    “He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

    Justice and mercy belong together.

    A Final Thought

    The rescue community doesn’t need more fear.

    It doesn’t need more gossip.

    It doesn’t need more people keeping score.

    It needs people willing to lead with humility, wisdom, accountability, and grace.

    Perhaps the greatest rescue we can participate in isn’t only rescuing animals.

    Perhaps it’s rescuing our culture from the belief that suffering gives us permission to make others suffer too.

    The cycle ends when someone decides it ends.

    May we be those people.

  • Present Public Police Records at Community Meeting

    Present Public Police Records at Community Meeting

    Animal Welfare Advocate to Present Public Police Records at Community Meeting

    Whitney, Texas — After months of waiting, local animal welfare advocate Denise Zamora has received the public police records she requested through the Texas Public Information Act regarding animal-related calls within the City of Whitney.

    Following a review by the Texas Attorney General, the City of Whitney released the public information required by law while redacting protected information. The City stated the request has now been fulfilled.

    According to Zamora, the records document numerous calls involving loose dogs, aggressive animals, animal bites, injured animals, barking dogs, welfare concerns, ordinance violations, dead animals, and other animal-related incidents occurring throughout the city over several months.

    “As an advocate for animal welfare and someone who serves this community daily, I believed it was important to obtain the facts,” Zamora said. “Transparency allows residents to understand the challenges our community is facing and have informed conversations about solutions.”

    Zamora says the purpose of requesting the records was not to criticize law enforcement but to better understand the frequency and nature of animal-related incidents within Whitney.

    The records show officers regularly responded to complaints involving roaming animals, bite investigations, neglect concerns, attacks on other animals, and enforcement of city ordinances. Some reports resulted in citations or investigations, while others were determined to be unfounded or closed after officers completed their response.

    Zamora plans to present the released records during the next Paws Place Rescue Community Monthly Meet-Up, where residents will have the opportunity to review the documents, ask questions, and discuss what the records reveal about animal welfare and public safety in Whitney.

    “I want people to see the information for themselves,” she said. “These are public records. My goal is education, transparency, and working together to find solutions that benefit both our community and our animals.”

    Residents interested in reviewing the records or participating in the discussion are encouraged to attend the upcoming community meeting. Copies of the released public records will be available for public review.

  • The Reality of Animal Control in Texas Counties Without Services

    THE TRUTH!

    When most people hear the term “Animal Control”, they assume every county has an official department that picks up strays, enforces laws, and protects both animals and the public. The reality, however, is very different—especially here in Hill County, Texas.

    Texas Law on Animal Control

    Under Texas Health & Safety Code, Chapter 822, counties are required to designate a “local rabies control authority.” This authority is tasked with enforcing rabies quarantine and public health rules. What the law does not require is a fully funded animal control department to pick up strays, manage dangerous dogs, or handle community-wide overpopulation issues.

    This gap leaves many counties—including ours—without the infrastructure to deal with the growing crisis of stray and feral animals.

    What Happens Without County Animal Control

    When a county has no official animal control:

    • Law enforcement officers (sheriff or police) may respond to emergency cases but typically have no shelter, kennels, or staff to manage the volume of animals.
    • Stray and feral animals multiply, creating risks of bites, disease transmission, property damage, and tragic roadway accidents.
    • Aggressive or dangerous dogs may fall under the “dangerous dog” provisions of Texas law (Health & Safety Code §822.041-047), but enforcement requires private citizens to file reports, attend hearings, and often pay fees—not an easy process.
    • Nonprofits and rescues, like Paws Place Rescue, step in where the county cannot. These organizations are community-funded and volunteer-driven, with no government budget to rely on.

    The Community Burden

    Because Hill County does not operate a county-funded animal control facility, the burden falls on:

    • Private rescues and shelters – which are selective based on space, funding, and safety concerns.
    • Citizens – who are often left with no option but to rehome pets themselves or rely on out-of-county humane societies.
    • Law enforcement – who may have to make difficult calls in urgent, dangerous situations without proper facilities.

    This is why community-driven efforts matter so much. Without official county support, the only way to address the stray and feral population is by working together—through spay/neuter programs, responsible rehoming, donations, and volunteer support.

    Moving Forward

    It’s important for residents to understand:

    • Texas law only guarantees rabies control, not full-service animal control.
    • Counties can choose to fund and operate animal control, but many—like ours—do not.
    • Real solutions will come from community partnerships, civic involvement, and local leadership stepping up to prioritize animal welfare alongside public safety.

    Until then, rescues like Paws Place Rescue Inc. will continue to carry the responsibility that, in many places, belongs to a taxpayer-funded department.

    👉 If you want to be part of the solution, please attend our community meet-ups, volunteer, or donate. Together, we can reduce the crisis of stray and feral animals in Hill County.

  • 🐾 Shiba Inus Rescued After Breeder Dumps Them in Crate — Investigation Underway

    Rescued on June 30, 2025

    Location: Itasca, TX

    Rescue Organization: Paws Place Rescue Inc. & Sanctuary

    Filed With: Hill County Sheriff’s Department

    On June 30th, 2025, our team at Paws Place Rescue Inc. & Sanctuary rescued three Shiba Inus who were found abandoned in a crate by the side of the road in rural Hill County.

    Thanks to quick action by local community members, these dogs—now named She-Ra, He-Man, and Cringer—are now safe, fed, vetted, and on the road to healing. ❤️‍🩹

    After further investigation by working together with our community, we were able to trace the source of the abandonment back to individuals affiliated with a breeding operation known as Paws of Love in Itasca, Texas.

    🚨 This Is Not Just Wrong—It’s Illegal

    Abandonment of animals in the state of Texas is a criminal offense.

    Texas Penal Code § 42.092 – Cruelty to Nonlivestock Animals

    (b)(3) A person commits an offense if the person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly abandons an animal in the person’s custody.

    (c) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.

    Animal cruelty and abandonment are not minor infractions. These are acts that cause real trauma to living beings, and they are punishable under state law. As a legal, state-recognized 501 (c)(3) rescue, Paws Place Rescue Inc. always follows state guidelines, including selective intakes, proper transport, and immediate vetting. When we see something wrong, we will speak up.

    📂 Official Investigation Has Been Requested

    We have filed a request for an official animal cruelty and abandonment investigation with the Hill County Sheriff’s Department.

    All communication screenshots, photos, and evidence of breeder neglect have been turned over.

    We are demanding accountability for those involved—not just for these three innocent lives, but for every animal who has suffered silently behind the scenes.

    🐶 Meet the Survivors: She-Ra, He-Man & Cringer

    These three Shiba Inus are beautiful, resilient, and incredibly sweet despite what they’ve endured. After being used for backyard breeding, they’ve finally been given names, vet care, and a safe place to decompress. One female (6 years old) and two younger males (approx. 2 years old) are now on their way to recovery—with spay/neuter appointments already scheduled and prepaid.

    They will be available for adoption soon through our fully vetted process. Interested families can follow their updates on our Facebook page or website.

    ⚖️ Abuse Isn’t a “Misunderstanding.” It’s a Crime.

    Backyard breeding and breeder neglect are epidemic issues across Texas. But with your support, we’re fighting back one rescue at a time.

    If you suspect abuse, abandonment, or cruelty—report it. You may be saving a life.

    🔍 Stay Tuned for Updates

    We will post updates as the investigation develops.

    To support She-Ra, He-Man, Cringer, and others like them, please consider donating, sharing our mission, or partnering with our Pets & Vets Program, which supports veteran adoptions and lifelong training.

    💻 Visit: https://www.pawsplacerescue.com

    📧 Contact: pawsplacerescue.inc@gmail.com

    Thank you for standing with us.

    —

    Paws Place Rescue Inc. & Sanctuary

    “Giving the gift of a furever home, one paw at a time.”

  • When the Doors Opened, So Did My Heart

    I used to think the hardest part of my life was the injury I sustained at work—and the ripple effect it caused in my career and daily routine. For a year, I’ve dealt with pain, physical limits, and emotional exhaustion. It was draining. But nothing, absolutely nothing, could have prepared me for the wave of emotions that hit me when I opened the doors to my rescue just over a month ago.

    This journey—this calling—has been beautiful, but brutally raw.

    Every day I wake up with anxiety, not knowing what that next rescue call will bring. Will it be another abandoned soul? A medical emergency? A face I’ll never forget? The weight of that uncertainty makes me want to curl up under the covers and cry myself to sleep. But I don’t. Somehow, somewhere, something inside me pushes me forward. Just enough strength. Just enough heart. Just enough hope.

    Yesterday was one of those moments that reminded me of why I do this—why I have to keep doing this. I took our newest rescue, Ritz, to the vet for his first checkup. As we sat in the waiting room, I noticed a mother and son across from me. I could feel their pain before they ever said a word. Being deeply empathetic—some might even say intuitive—I just knew they weren’t there for a routine visit. And when they stood up and walked out in tears, it broke me. I cried right there in the waiting room.

    This work isn’t just about saving animals. It’s about feeling—the kind of deep, soul-shaking feeling that comes from shared grief, silent goodbyes, and unspoken understanding. It’s about being present in those moments that many try to look away from.

    Running a rescue is hard. It’s messy. It’s draining. But it’s also sacred. And despite the tears, the pain, the uncertainty—I wouldn’t trade this calling for anything.

    Ritz’s Day Out – and a Glimpse Behind the Scenes

    While yesterday held heavy emotions, it also brought joy. Ritz had a big day—he got groomed, had a full vet checkup, and officially moved out of quarantine. He’s now settling in as a full-on house baby, and you’d never know he was once a stray.

    These little moments—the clean fur, the safe home, the fresh start—are everything. But they don’t happen without a great deal of effort behind the scenes.

    I am the only full-time operator of Paws Place Rescue Inc. Every animal here is fed, cleaned, cared for, and transported by me. This isn’t a public facility—it’s a private, residential sanctuary where I live with these animals, where they sleep just a few feet away, and where they’re treated as family from day one.

    Two days out of the week, my husband steps in to help with training. He works with the ones who need a little extra guidance—whether it’s confidence, leash manners, or trust-building. Together, we manage it all. No staff. No revolving door of volunteers. (Neighbors have assisted on occasions &thank God for them. They are so appreciated) Just heart, routine, and relentless dedication.

    In Memory of Zoey – My Reason

    If it wasn’t for God bringing me our Zoey, I don’t think I’d have the patience or strength to do what I do now. We originally fostered her through Whitney Animal Control, and she became family. She has since passed, but not a day goes by that I don’t feel her presence here.

    Zoey taught me the meaning of unconditional love. She showed me how to be slow to anger, and how patience can move mountains. Her spirit lives in every rescue I take in. She is the reason I keep pushing, even when it’s too heavy to carry.

    If you’re reading this and wondering how to help… just know that support doesn’t always mean adoption. Sometimes it’s a donation, a kind message, a share, or simply telling someone else about the work being done here.

    This rescue isn’t just a mission—it’s a promise. And as long as I can breathe, I’ll keep showing up for them.

    —Denise

    Founder, Paws Place Rescue Inc.

    📍 Whitney, TX (just outside city limits)

    📧 pawsplacerescue.inc@gmail.com

    📞 (945) 225-8250

  • Sandy’s Story: From the Side of the Road to the Arms of Compassion

    Published by Paws Place Rescue Inc.

    Sandy

    A little over a month ago, along the stretch of FM 2604 just outside Whitney, Texas, a small dog wandered alone—confused, abandoned, and dangerously close to traffic. This road has sadly become known to our community as a dumping ground for the voiceless. But this time, someone stopped.

    One of our incredible local residents spotted her, scooped her up, and refused to look away. After weeks of searching for her owner—through online posts, community pages, and word-of-mouth—no one came forward. No chip. No collar. No clue who she belonged to.

    And yet, despite the heartbreak, this story took a hopeful turn.

    She’s now lovingly named Sandy, and she’s in the care of someone who wants nothing more than to keep her safe—but without the means to give her all the care she needs, they reached out to us at Paws Place Rescue Inc.

    As a private and selective rescue sanctuary, we take in animals based on space, need, and our ability to give them a true shot at a better life. While we cannot take every animal that comes our way, we do all we can to support responsible caregiving—and Sandy’s case is one we proudly stand behind.

    Sandy will remain with her foster caregiver, who has no intention of ever surrendering her to a shelter. But she still needs vetting, vaccinations, and most importantly—she needs to be spayed. That’s where you come in.

    We’re calling on our community once again to help us give Sandy what every stray deserves:

    Safety. Security. And a second chance.

    If you’ve ever wanted to make a difference in a dog’s life, this is the moment. Your donation goes directly to Sandy’s care and to supporting our ongoing mission of helping the abandoned, the forgotten, and the overlooked.

    🌟https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=DRTADYXSPCP28&fbclid=IwQ0xDSwKrGXFleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHj_8YcB1lMACXx_tEdjKvBH8vgPYIPWMmCWUX4LMspckjiYjPLm75kUnJGY4_aem_Ma2jk_sXqatHiCNq6Af4oQ

    Or contact us for alternate ways to give.

    Thank you for being part of Sandy’s story, and thank you for being the heartbeat behind every rescue we make possible.

    With gratitude,

    Denise Zamora

    Founder, Paws Place Rescue Inc.

  • Why We Became a Sanctuary: A Home for the Forgotten

    At Paws Place Rescue Inc., our mission has always been to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome. But over time, we’ve come to realize that not every animal needs a new home — some just need a final one. That’s why we expanded our work to include a sanctuary: a peaceful, loving space where animals who are too old, too fragile, or too traumatized to be adopted can live out their days in dignity and comfort.

    Yesterday, we welcomed Harold, a very elderly pup whose eyes are clouded with age and whose body is delicate from time. His chances of adoption are slim — but that doesn’t mean his life is any less meaningful.

    Here at our sanctuary, Harold will spend his remaining days surrounded by warmth, safety, and unconditional love. He’ll rest on soft blankets, feel the sun on his fur, and be cared for like the treasure he is. His story reminds us exactly why the sanctuary exists — because every soul deserves to be cherished, no matter how short their time may be.

    Harold, our newest sanctuary resident, settling in with soft blankets and gentle care. His golden years will be filled with love.

    “Sanctuary isn’t just a place. It’s a promise — that no matter what, you are not forgotten.”

    If you’d like to support Harold or help us continue offering peaceful retirements for the ones left behind, please consider donating. Every bit helps us provide the care, comfort, and love these souls so deeply deserve.

    Donate: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=DRTADYXSPCP28&fbclid=IwQ0xDSwKUXLtleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHvT3kTmrunqCV-4CQqdhAwlG-yJkGXdncles_AiO5bC2P3jKaUiVspOM4fVN_aem_GZSdmpqqkhCLw4McLB7qtQ

    Paws Place Rescue Inc. — Where second chances live peacefully.

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  • Grief After Loss: The Pain of Losing a Pet and the Power of Community Healing

    Grief has no limits. It doesn’t pause to consider whether you lost a human or an animal—it just hurts. For many of us, the loss of a pet can be one of the most devastating heartbreaks we experience. The world often overlooks this kind of grief, but at Paws Place Rescue, we see it. We feel it. And we want others to know: you are not alone.

    When I lost Zoey, the pain was unbearable. She wasn’t just my dog—she was my mirror, my healing companion. We found each other at a time when we were both struggling. Zoey had lost her peripheral vision, and so had I. We both suffered from high anxiety and carried deep wounds of broken trust. But together, we found comfort. We created a world where it was safe to love again.

    Her presence brought peace. Her absence now brings an ache I never expected. I still feel her with me—like a whisper in the air, a familiar rhythm in the silence. Grief like this isn’t about how long you’ve had someone or what species they were. It’s about the bond, the shared moments, the healing love that leaves its mark on your soul.

    “We didn’t just save each other—we healed each other. And now, in her absence, I carry that love forward in every step I take.”

    And that kind of love deserves space to be mourned.

    At Paws Place Rescue, we believe grief should never be carried alone. We are opening our sanctuary to host grief support meet-ups—gatherings for those who have lost beloved pets and are seeking comfort, understanding, or simply a place to talk and be heard. Whether it’s your first week without them or your tenth year, you’re welcome here.

    Together, we can honor the love we’ve lost, and slowly begin to heal in community.

    To stay updated on our grief support dates or to share your story, email us at pawsplacerescue.inc@gmail.com.

    Let’s remind each other: love doesn’t end at loss—and neither does support

    The day I told her I am going to adopt her.

    To Donate: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=DRTADYXSPCP28

  • Why Adopting from a Rescue Matters: A Personal Mission Beyond the City Limits

    The heart behind Paws Place Rescue Inc.

    When you adopt from a private sanctuary like Paws Place Rescue Inc., you’re doing more than just finding a pet — you’re giving a second chance, restoring hope, and becoming part of something greater than yourself. Our mission reaches beyond city limits, quite literally.

    Outside the City, But Deeply Rooted in the Community

    Our rescue is located just outside the city limits of Whitney, Texas — and that’s no accident. We chose this path because of what we witnessed within the city’s system. Under current city policy, stray or surrendered dogs are held for just 72 hours before facing euthanasia. There is no long-term care, no rehabilitation facility, and no emotional support for these animals.

    Whitney currently has no animal control, no shelter, due to funding and policy constraints, also lack access to affordable medical care and charge high adoption fees — all without providing the emotional or physical rehabilitation so many animals desperately need.

    What Makes Us Different

    At Paws Place Rescue Inc., every animal we take in becomes part of our home. Our sanctuary is not a warehouse for pets. It’s a safe haven — a home-based environment where animals are loved, socialized, and prepared for life in a family.

    We don’t rush the process. Each animal receives:

    One-on-one attention Medical evaluations and treatment Home integration and behavioral assessments A healing touch that only love and time can offer

    Why We’re Selective

    We are intentional about the animals we take in — not to limit, but to protect. Many of our animals live alongside free-roaming farm animals and vulnerable species. We evaluate every intake for temperament, breed compatibility, and the sanctuary’s environment, ensuring peace and safety for all. Because we operate on donations, not government funding, we only take on what we can fully care for.

    This allows us to provide quality care over quantity and to ensure no animal falls through the cracks.

    We Operate on Heart, Not Policy

    This rescue is not driven by policy — it’s driven by purpose. Every animal here is valued as a living being, not a number on a kennel door. We also believe in involving the community through:

    One of our visions is pet adoption events, donation drives, education and wellness workshops. Featured rescue stories from community members, grief and memorial gatherings for lost animals.

    We know that grieving an animal is just as sacred as grieving a human, and we want to create a safe space for those emotions to be shared and validated.

    Our Heartbeat: Zoey’s Story

    This sanctuary is dedicated to Zoey, a city shelter dog who changed our lives forever. We took her in as a foster from the City of Whitney Animal Control. She was to be euthanized. Zoey suffered from severe seizures, and despite our tireless efforts, she passed away. She never knew a cold cage again — only love.

    Zoey showed us that these animals deserve more than 72 hours. They deserve a fighting chance. Her life and loss led us to open our home — and our hearts — as a private rescue sanctuary guided by faith and compassion.

    Be Part of the Mission

    Whether you adopt, donate, or simply share our message — you’re making a difference. You’re giving these animals a voice, a name, and most importantly — a future.

    Adopt from compassion. Adopt from care. Adopt from rescue.

    Welcome to Paws Place Rescue Inc., where every life matters — and every story begins with love.

    Zoey

    To donate: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=DRTADYXSPCP28

  • Hello Hill County Community!

    Hi everyone, I’m Denise Zamora, founder and caregiver of Paws Place Rescue Inc., a private sanctuary and rescue built from love, compassion, and a deep commitment to animals in need. I’m so excited to officially introduce myself and our mission to the community through this blog.

    Paws Place Rescue isn’t just a rescue—it’s a safe haven, a sanctuary. Our home provides peace and care for animals who’ve faced hardship, lost their owners, or need a second chance. We specialize in selective, emergency, and lifelong care cases, focusing on giving each animal the attention and respect they deserve.

    I’ve been rescuing animals for over six years, and every day brings new challenges, joys, and reasons to be grateful for the support of our incredible community. Together, we’re not only saving lives—we’re creating a sanctuary where animals can heal, feel safe, and thrive.

    Thank you for being part of this journey. I invite you to follow along, learn more about our work, and join us in making a difference—one life at a time.

    Stay tuned for rescue stories, updates, and ways you can support our mission!

    With gratitude,

    Denise Zamora