I've always loved dogs. Growing up with two rescue German Shepherd mixes, I've never been without a canine best friend. My journey in the world of dog rescue started in 2000 when I began volunteering at shelters. In 2006, I took the leap into fostering dogs, and that's where the real magic began.

In 2020, while volunteering in Nueces County, TX, I witnessed an increasing need for more rescues. Too many dogs were left behind because they were deemed "too-mixed" for breed-specific rescues, and shelters were overflowing. It was clear that something had to be done.

And so, in 2021, I founded Braver Hund Rescue.

Our Mission Statement:

Braver Hund Rescue is a 501(c)(3) non-profit rescue dedicated to helping dogs in shelters at risk of euthanasia get a second chance at a loving life.

Every dog we save is special and rewarding in its own way. If I had to pick one that stands out, it would be Gypsy, a tiny 3.8 lb, 3-4 week old Belgian Malinois/German Shepherd mix at risk of euthanasia in El Paso, TX. The journey to save Gypsy involved a long drive and some challenging moments, but the bond formed during that rescue was truly heartwarming. After personally fostering her until she was four months old, Gypsy found a perfect adopter, and their story continues to warm my heart.

Inclusivity and Love for All Breeds:

While we have a soft spot for German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, and Huskies, as well as their mixes, our rescue is not breed-specific. We believe that every dog deserves a chance, and we're committed to rescuing any breed if we have the means to do so. Our rescue was named "Braver Hund" after my beloved GSD, Shelby, in German, which means "Good Dog."

Our Impact So Far:

Since obtaining our 501(c)(3) status in March 2022, Braver Hund Rescue has personally saved 28 dogs. But our mission extends beyond those we directly rescue. We've helped countless owner surrenders and found dogs by making courtesy posts, conducting reference checks, coordinating transportation, and connecting with other rescues and shelters. We've built a network of support to ensure that more dogs find their forever homes.

Challenges We Face:

The path of rescue isn't without its challenges. Finding dedicated fosters, covering vet bills and supplies, and witnessing the heartbreak of not being able to save every dog are some of the hurdles we face.

Our Supporters:

We're incredibly fortunate to have a community of supporters who make our work possible. Our fosters, vet partners at Animal Medical CC, generous financial donors, and transporters play a pivotal role in our success. Together, we've saved lives, like Chloe, Bodhi, and Wylie, who found homes through our efforts.

Adoption Process and Responsibility:

We take the responsibility of finding the right homes for our dogs seriously. Our adopters undergo a thorough vetting process, including personal and vet reference checks, interviews, and home visits whenever possible. We believe in responsible dog ownership and provide continued support for the lifetime of the dog.

Raising Awareness:

Our mission isn't just about saving dogs; it's also about raising awareness. Our posts are shared nationwide and in breed-specific groups, and we connect shelters to other rescues and transport services, building a sense of community in rescue efforts.

Supporting Responsible Ownership:

During interviews and interactions with potential adopters, we emphasize responsible dog ownership and offer ongoing support. We also provide free online training webinars and have offered in-person training in the past.

Funding and Support:

We rely on funds from Facebook and PayPal, often posting dogs with medical issues and requesting donations. We've been fortunate to have friends host surprise Facebook fundraisers, and some dogs have had pledges that were honored, thanks to diligent networkers.

Heartwarming Successes and Challenges:

Every time we see a dog we've saved living a wonderful life in their adoptive home, it's the best feeling. Hearing from adopters about the love they share with their rescue pups fills our hearts. However, there have been gut-wrenching moments, like losing puppies to Parvo.

Our Adoption Process:

Our adoption process involves submitting an application, two personal reference checks, a vet check, an interview, and a home visit if feasible. Meet and greets are encouraged, especially since most of our dogs have been adopted in Texas.

A Growing Commitment:

Running Braver Hund Rescue has become a full-time commitment. Every day, we receive multiple requests to help dogs from various shelters, assist friends in finding homes for owner surrenders and found dogs, and work tirelessly to find fosters or adopters. We've realized that the need is greater than we could have imagined, but we're continually inspired by the kindness and generosity of our supporters.

Success Stories and Future Goals:

The success stories are what keep us going. Dogs we've found homes for are thriving, and some have even become service dogs, transforming not only their lives but also those of their owners. One particularly heartwarming story is that of Rose, who went from being the most terrified dog to a happy, confident companion.

Our future goals include increasing the number of fosters and financial support so that we can save even more dogs. We'll always remain foster-based and prioritize quality over quantity. We aim to have 15-20 continuing foster parents and, if we achieve that, start applying for grants.

How You Can Help:

If you want to support Braver Hund Rescue, you can apply to foster or adopt a dog from us. Financial support is also greatly appreciated, and you can donate via our Facebook page or PayPal. Other ways to help include offering to transport dogs and helping us network them online and with family, friends, and coworkers. We believe that there's a perfect home for every dog, and your assistance in finding those homes is invaluable.

A Message to Future Rescuers:

If you're considering getting involved in rescue, know that it's the hardest thing we've ever done, and it will test you emotionally. There will be tears and moments when you feel like a failure for not being able to save every dog. But it's also the most rewarding thing we've ever done. Starting and running Braver Hund Rescue is the best thing we've ever done in our lives. It's worth every challenge, every tear, and every heartache, because the difference we make in the lives of these dogs is immeasurable.

Thank you for joining us on this journey to give dogs a second chance at a loving life. Together, we can make a difference, one dog at a time.

– Rita Sandt, Braver Hund Rescue President