"One of the biggest things I wish people understood is that most animals don't end up in rescues or shelters because they did something 'wrong,'" said Abandoned Animal Rescue Executive Director Yvonne Bodley. "They're usually victims of circumstances: moves, financial hardship, medical issues, or simply a lack of planning. None of which are the pets' fault. Abandonment is almost always preventable with responsible pet ownership—spaying and neutering, thinking realistically about time and resources, and seeking help before a crisis."
The heartbreaking tales of animals who have fallen on hard times inspired Angie Fenton, Barbara Schultz and James Gordon to launch Abandoned Animal Rescue (AAR) in 2002. What started in a leased liquor store in Tomball evolved into a rescue center with two locations in Hufsmith and Magnolia, complete with a cattery and dog kennels for furry friends awaiting adoption. The founders were motivated to end unnecessary euthanasia of homeless and unwanted cats and dogs while preventing pet overpopulation through rescue, adoption, and education about humane pet ownership.
According to Bodley, the challenges facing abandoned animals have intensified significantly, creating a crisis that extends beyond individual shelters. Shelters, both municipal and private, are dealing with more animals than they can safely house. AAR has witnessed a troubling increase in owner surrenders and abandonments, driven by financial hardships, changing living situations, and people underestimating the cost and commitment of pet ownership.
Rising veterinary costs have created additional barriers. Routine medical care, vaccinations, and treatment for illnesses have become significant expenses that many pet owners—particularly in lower-income neighborhoods—either can't afford or can't easily access through subsidized clinics. While the rescue has established their Starfund to help families financially with medical needs and keep pets in homes, they're fighting an uphill battle against higher intake rates and slower adoptions.
"We receive more than 100 calls and emails every single day from people hoping to surrender a cat or dog," Bodley said. "It's heartbreaking to know we can't say 'yes' to each one, but when every kennel is full, we simply have no choice."
AAR follows a specific protocol for accepting animals. They don't accept drop-offs, so their intake process is handled entirely by email. Community members reach out when they need to surrender or have found a cat or dog, and staff reviews each request as it comes in. They don't discriminate by breed and don't keep a waitlist—acceptance depends entirely on available space and timing.
Every dog is assessed to ensure they're friendly with both people and other dogs. Cats and kittens are accepted as foster space allows. Once an animal enters the program, a volunteer veterinarian provides a full exam, vaccinations, and microchip. AAR partners with trusted outside clinics for spay/neuter and other medical procedures since they don't have their own clinic.
Animal rescue work presents constant challenges, and AAR relies heavily on volunteers and community support. "Behind every happy adoption photo are countless hours of cleaning, medical care, training, fundraising, and tough decisions about space and safety," Bodley explained. "It's emotionally intense: volunteers bond with the animals, celebrate each success, and grieve every loss."
The most meaningful community support extends beyond financial gifts to hands-on involvement through volunteering, fostering, adopting, spreading awareness, and advocating for animals in schools, workplaces, and local government.
"Rescue isn't just about saving lives in the moment—it's about long-term commitment," Bodley said. "When someone adopts, fosters, donates, or advocates, they're helping break the cycle of overpopulation and neglect. Understanding that ripple effect, and that each of us can be part of the solution, would make a huge difference for the animals and the people who care for them."