Rent safe and private dog parks hosted by locals

Dog Training Dog Reactivity Dog Enrichment Sniffspot Community Top Dog Trainers City Dog Parks Dog Breeds Dog Names Dog Rescues & Shelters

Home

Blog

Dog Rescues & Shelters

Texas

Austin

Paws In Your Hands Rescue

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

Paws In Your Hands Rescue

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #3 in Austin

http://pawsinyourhandsrescue.com

Pawsinyourhandsrescue@gmail.com

Service areas:

Elgin, TX

At Paws In Your Hands Rescue (PIYHR), we adopt a progressive and thoughtful approach to dog rescue, setting us apart from traditional organizations. We operate without a physical facility, focusing instead on a strategic model that involves securing confirmed adopters before intervening in a dog's shelter life. This preemptive confirmation ensures that every rescue effort we undertake is with a definitive path to a loving, permanent home. Once an adopter is confirmed, we then formally rescue the dog and place them into one of our compassionate foster homes located in Texas. This step often represents the first time these dogs, many of whom were previously strays or confined in shelter environments, experience the warmth and safety of a home setting. By implementing this method, we significantly reduce the stress experienced by the dogs and efficiently manage our resources, allowing for a more focused and personalized care process. Our rescue efforts extend far beyond Massachusetts to Texas, where the need is overwhelming. The state faces one of the highest shelter euthanasia rates in the U.S., compounded by low spay and neuter rates and an overburdened shelter system. Thousands of dogs in Texas roam the streets or languish in overcrowded shelters, desperately needing rescue and a chance at a better life. We focus our efforts on these vulnerable canines, providing them a pathway to forever homes predominantly along the East Coast and in the New England region. Since our inception, Paws In Your Hands Rescue (PIYHR) has grown significantly, not in size but in capability and reach. Our operations remain intentionally small-scale to maintain effectiveness and ensure we never overextend our resources. At the heart of our efforts is our founder, Amala, supported by a dedicated group of volunteers whose profound love for dogs drives our mission. We have forged essential partnerships not only with veterinary providers—who offer us reduced-cost care—but also with overwhelmed rescues and overcrowded shelters. These collaborations have been crucial in extending our reach and impact, allowing us to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome more dogs than ever before. At Paws In Your Hands, we pour extensive care, consideration, and love into every step of our rescues’ journeys. Our commitment to sustainable, impactful rescue work is deeply personal and informed by our founder Amala’s own distressing experience with a supposed reputable rescue. Amala was scammed by a Texas-based rescue that engaged in unethical practices—failing to provide vaccinations, medical care, or honest dealings, and ultimately delivering a severely ill puppy without any medical records. This puppy, only 12 weeks old and suffering from abuse, trauma, inbreeding, and severe lifelong medical issues, including parvo, miraculously survived. This experience has driven us to prioritize transparency and honesty in all our operations. We go above and beyond to ensure no adopter experiences what Amala did. While we strive to provide as much information as possible about our dogs, often their full histories remain unknown. Nonetheless, we are committed to making the adoption process as clear and positive as possible, prioritizing the well-being of each dog and the quality of the adoption experience.

Mission and Vision

Paws In Your Hands Rescue (PIYHR) is a dedicated 501(c)3 nonprofit organization headquartered in Massachusetts, passionately focused on rescuing and securing new homes for dogs facing severe hardships. Our mission is to transform the lives of shelter dogs—those who are homeless, abandoned, neglected, or surrendered—by steering them toward the love and security of permanent homes. At PIYHR, we believe every dog deserves a second chance at life, and we are committed to making that a reality, one rescue at a time. While we are based in Massachusetts, our adoption efforts extend throughout the New England and East Coast regions, ensuring that our impact reaches as far as possible.

Adoption Policy

ADOPTION INFORMATION Thank you for considering adopting a rescue dog from Paws In Your Hands Rescue! We are thrilled that you are considering adopting one of our rescue dogs. Our aim is to match each of our dogs with a loving and permanent home. Below, you will find detailed steps and requirements for our adoption process. Eligibility Requirements: To ensure a successful adoption and the long-term well-being of our dogs, please review the following eligibility criteria: • Rental Approval: Tenants must obtain and provide written approval from landlords or property management. This documentation is crucial and required without exceptions to proceed with the adoption. • Workday Consideration: We seek families or individuals where a dog would not be left alone for more than 8 hours. Applicants must present a plan for dog care during extended absences, such as doggy daycare or a pet sitter. • Student Policy: We do not accept applications from full-time students or individuals residing in college dormitories or student-specific housing due to the often transient and restrictive nature of such living situations. • Pet Health Requirements: Prospective adopters with current pets must ensure all dogs and cats in the home are spayed or neutered and maintain up-to-date vaccinations (rabies and core vaccines). • Application Completeness: Every section of the adoption application must be thoroughly and honestly completed. Incomplete applications may lead to a denial of adoption. • Age Consent: Applicants under 21 years old must provide written consent from a parent or guardian. ADOPTION PROCESS Step 1: Complete the Online Adoption Application • Begin by completing our detailed adoption application available on our website. The application is designed to collect comprehensive information about your living situation, past pet ownership, and your expectations for adopting a dog. This initial step is crucial for pre-approval before you fall in love with a specific dog. Step 2: Submission of Additional Documents • Following your application submission, you will need to provide additional supporting documents such as proof of residence, landlord approval (if renting), and records of current pet vaccinations. These documents can be uploaded through our secure portal or sent via email. Your application will not proceed until all required documents are received. Step 3: Review and Background Check • Our dedicated team will conduct a detailed review of your application and perform a background check. This is essential to verify the suitability and safety of the potential home. Step 4: Interview Process • Should your application and initial documents meet our criteria, we will schedule a comprehensive interview via phone or Zoom. During this interview, we will discuss any queries you might have, delve deeper into our adoption policies, and gauge the compatibility between you and your potential new dog. Step 5: Approval and Final Steps • If the interview is successful and all checks are satisfactory, we will notify you about the status of your application. Upon approval, we will coordinate the final steps including the signing of the adoption contract, processing the adoption fee, and arranging for the transportation of your new dog. You will also receive a complete medical packet and a detailed history of the dog. Arranging for Your Dog's Arrival • Once everything is approved and finalized, we will organize the transportation of your new companion to your home. The transition period typically lasts 1-2 weeks, during which your dog will be cared for in one of our dedicated foster homes. This foster period helps the dog adjust from the shelter environment to a home setting, ensuring a smoother transition to your home.

https://www.pawsinyourhandsrescue.com/adoptable-animals

Testimonials

No testimonials submitted

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization In Austin

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Austin

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other Cities Near Austin

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot is a community marketplace that enables anyone to rent land by-the-hour as a safe and private dog park.

Find Sniffspot on your favorite social media

The Best Dog Parks Near You in the United States

The Best Dog Parks Near Atlanta, Georgia

The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States

All categories

Dog Parent's Guide to Separation Anxiety

The Ultimate Guide To Flying With Large Dogs: Airline Policies and Tricks

Most recent articles

The Best Dog Parks Near You in the United States

The Best Dog Parks Near Atlanta, Georgia

The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States

The Best Dog Parks Near San Diego, California

Furry Co-Pilots Welcome: The Best Way to Travel in an RV with Your Dog

Australian Shepherd: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

The Best Dog Parks Near You in the United States

The Best Dog Parks Near Atlanta, Georgia

The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

My Dog Is Food Aggressive With Other Dogs: What To Do
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
Scent Training for Dogs: A Beginner's Guide
As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.
Service Dog Training Costs: DIY vs. Pro
More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.
What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression
You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?
Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop?
Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!

Dog enrichment guides

The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States
Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.
Best Toys for Herding Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Ultimate Guide: Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers
Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?
Daily Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?
Everyone knows dogs need exercise, but how much is enough? Walks are great, but creating a truly balanced fitness plan means understanding your dog's specific needs. This post helps you develop a daily exercise calculator for your dog, considering breed, age, and lifestyle. We'll cover fun activities, understanding exercise intensity, and recognizing when your pup has had enough. Let's create a plan that keeps your dog happy and healthy!
Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Dog reactivity guides

Rottweiler Aggression: Truth vs. Myth
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
What Is a Reactive Dog? A Guide to Understanding Reactivity
So: Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (cars, bikes, skateboards, and other fast-moving objects are also common triggers) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling not only feels embarrassing for you — it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
How to Socialize a Reactive Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
Definitive Guide: What is Dog Reactivity?
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
The 9 Best Online Communities for Reactive Dog Parents
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

The Best Dog Trainers in the United States of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in the United States, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Seattle, WA of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Seattle, WA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Portland, OR of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Portland, OR, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Los Angeles, CA of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Los Angeles, CA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in New York, NY of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in New York, NY, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.

City dog parks guides

Top 10 Indoor Dog Parks: A US Guide
Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.
The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States
Searching for the best off-leash dog parks near you in the United States? Whether you're looking for public dog parks with open spaces or private, fully-fenced areas, this comprehensive guide has you covered. Discover top-rated parks across the country, plus essential tips on what to bring and what to expect for your next adventure.
Best Dog Parks Near Me in Las Vegas
Looking for the perfect dog park near me in Las Vegas? You're in luck! This guide explores all the best options for your pup, from public dog parks to private dog parks near me on Sniffspot. We'll help you find the ideal spot for playtime, socializing, and fresh air. Plus, we'll cover essential etiquette and safety tips to ensure a happy visit for everyone. Get ready for some tail-wagging fun!
The Best Dog Parks Near You in the United States
Searching for the best dog parks near you in the United States? Whether you're looking for off-leash public spaces or private, fenced areas, this comprehensive guide has you covered.
The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.

Dogs breeds

Top dog names in the US

Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
Most Popular Male Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
Most Popular Female Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
Most Popular Golden Retriever Names
Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names
Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

Top dog rescues in the US

The Best Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Washington. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Oregon Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Oregon. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best California Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in California. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Florida Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Florida. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best New York Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in New York. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

Paws In Your Hands Rescue

Mission and Vision

Adoption Policy

Testimonials

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization In Austin

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Austin

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other Cities Near Austin

David Adams

About Sniffspot

Follow us

Related articles

All categories

Most recent articles

Related articles

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

Dog enrichment guides

Dog reactivity guides

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

Dogs breeds

Top dog names in the US

Top dog rescues in the US

About Sniffspot

Browse by top cities

Atlanta

Austin

Boston

Calgary

Chicago

Columbus

Dallas

Denver

Edmonton

Houston

Las Vegas

Logan

Los Angeles

Milwaukee

Minneapolis

Nashville

New York

Old Toronto

Omaha

Ottawa

Philadelphia

Phoenix

Portland

San Antonio

San Diego

San Francisco

Seattle

Tampa

Washington

Westminster

Browse by top states

Alabama

Alaska

Arizona

Arkansas

California

Colorado

Connecticut

Delaware

Florida

Georgia

Hawaii

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Iowa

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Maine

Maryland

Massachusetts

Michigan

Minnesota