Rescuing animals has always been part of my DNA. It started in college, when I took in two tiny kittens abandoned in a woodpile behind our house in California. Not long after, a little black poodle wandered into my apartment complex. That’s when I first learned about “dumped dogs.” He quickly became part of my growing furry family. After college, a friend brought me another abandoned pup—this one found in a busy parking lot in Houston’s Galleria area. He became my fourth rescue.

When I got married in the mid-90s, my husband and I began encountering more and more dogs that had been found by others; dogs whose owners, when contacted, simply said they didn’t want them back. We took them in, cared for them, and found them new homes. As our children grew, it became clear that my daughter had inherited my love for animals. Together, we continued to take in dogs and cats that had nowhere else to go—animals who would otherwise end up in overcrowded shelters, where their chances of survival were slim. We made sacrifices to make it work. Family vacations were rare, and when they did happen, my husband and I often split up—one of us staying behind to care for the animals while the other traveled with the kids. Every extra dollar we had went toward our children and our rescues. That was just our way of life, and we did the best we could for many years.

Fast forward to 2024. My son, now out of college and working in commercial real estate, offered to help me take our rescue efforts to the next level. Thanks to his support, we officially launched RTTRS—and he now serves as our CEO, keeping me focused on the business side of things while I continue doing what I love: caring for the dogs. My daughter and husband have also stepped up in big ways. When they’re not working their day jobs, they help with feeding, cleaning, and giving the dogs the love and attention they need. They especially help in the evenings, giving me a much-needed break. The dogs wake me up very early, which means I have to go to bed early—so that last “go-out” of the night can be tough when I’m completely exhausted.

Each day, I have a choice: I can feel overwhelmed by the demands of caring for 16 medium-to-large dogs, or I can choose to focus on the joy they bring. I choose joy. Whether it’s watching them leap into the pool after a ball or sniff out treats during a game of “find it,” their happiness keeps me grounded and reminds me why we do this.

As a mom, I’m eternally grateful to my family for helping bring this dream to life. Everyone is using their unique strengths to build something meaningful, and I’m overwhelmed with pride. We’re working hard to create a sanctuary where every dog in our care—whether they stay for a day, a month, or a lifetime—can feel safe, loved, and valued. Some of our rescues will find their forever families. Others may live out their lives with us. But every single one deserves a second chance. And at RTTRS, we’re committed to making that happen.