Austin is one of the most dog-friendly cities in the country. Since making a No Kill commitment in 2010, which stated the city could not kill while cages are empty and must implement a large-scale foster and adoption program, it’s had a save rate of over 90 percent, making it among the largest in the nation. Austin Pets Alive is the most well-known rescue in Central Austin and does a lot to save pups in and around the city (see more in our feature on CUDDLY). But, for those who are deterred from going to APA because they have their heart set on a specific breed, and that’s the pain point between shopping and adopting, this article is to inform you that Austin (and the surrounding area) is home to dozens of rescues that cater exclusively to specific breeds.
You can find a rescue for Akitas, Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, Beagles, Bichons, Border Collies, Chihuahuas, Chow Chows, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, Dalmatians, Dobermans, Great Danes, Great Pyrenees, Greyhounds, Huskies, Labradors, Lhasa Apsos, Maltese, Mastiffs, Pekingese, Pitbulls, Pomeranians, Poodles, Pugs, Schnauzers, Shih Tzus, Yorkshire Terrier and more.
Adopting a dog is a commitment and every breed has its own specific needs based on personality traits and physical requirements. Rescues that focus on only one breed have expert knowledge to help you provide a recipe for success with your new addition.
A short list calling out a few specific rescues below, but if you’re in the market for a dog, start your journey to your new furry family member entering the dog breed + ‘Austin dog rescue’ in a Google search, or go to http://pawsitivelytexas.com and you’ll find yourself closer to the perfect pet looking to be fostered or adopted.
Austin Bulldog Rescue
These rescues are well-versed in the unique characteristics and health concerns of Bulldogs and are well-versed to educate future owners. https://austinbulldogrescue.com/
Heart of Texas Lab Rescue
The HOT Lab Rescue gets dogs that have been abandoned or rescued from shelters and pounds and place them exclusively in Texas homes. All Labradors are neutered/spayed, are current on shots and heartworm negative prior to being put up for adoption. Check out their website for currently adoptable dogs and local events. https://www.hotlabrescue.org
Love-a-Bull
Love-A-Bull focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming pit bull-type dogs, while also providing resources and education. They strive to change negative stereotypes surrounding these misunderstood breeds and promote responsible ownership. https://love-a-bull.org/
Greyhound Adoption League: Central Texas Chapter
Greyhounds often come to rescues after serving time on a track, but a few weeks in a good home, and they can quickly adapt to being the sweetest pets. GALTX process is to have prospective parents first foster on the road to adoption. Learn more here: https://galtx-centex.org/
Gold Ribbon Rescue: Golden Retriever Rescue
They provide a network for sheltering, rehabilitation and placing Golden Retrievers in permanent homes in Central Texas. https://grr-tx.com
Cocker Spaniel Rescue of Austin
This is where I got my dog and it couldn’t have been a lovelier experience. They have regular local meet ups around town and if you’ve already filled out an application (and had it approved), you can take a dog home straight from there to begin a trial run. They also maintain a facebook page where you can see who’s up for adoption. http://www.austincockerrescue.org/
