Did you know that Houston PetSet provides grants to 70+ Greater Houston animal welfare organizations each year? Our new “Rescue Feature Friday” series highlights one of our amazing partners so that you can learn more about the nonprofits that work so hard every day to end animal homelessness and suffering.
Today, we’re excited to feature Great Dane Rescue of Southeast Texas! With funding from our grant, their nonprofit is able to offset the costs they incur from spaying, neutering and vaccinating the animals in their care.
> What is the mission of Great Dane Rescue of Southeast Texas?
We rescue abandoned, sick, injured, and abused Great Danes from various Houston area shelters and owner surrenders. We place all of our Gentle Giants into foster homes where the Gentle Giants begin their rehabilitation. We temperament test each dog, complete a full medical evaluation including heartworm test, spay or neuter each dog, and fecal. Our foster parents begin to teach each foster dog basic manners and prepare them for a loving home.
Great Dane Rescue of Southeast Texas is funded by donations, adoption fees, and fundraising which goes directly towards the care of our rescued Great Danes.
> When was your organization established?
February 2009
> How did you become involved in your organization and what is your current role?
Judy Jones, I am the founder. I saw a need to help unwanted, abused, and untrained Great Danes find loving homes.
> Do you work with your organization as a paid or volunteer, full-time or part-time member?
Full-time, unpaid volunteer
> What keeps you motivated to continue your work?
Rescuing a dog and then watching that dog blossom and become the best dog that it can be makes my heart smile very big.
That our organization is still very strong and committed. Our volunteers continue to do what we need to do in order to save dogs’ lives.
> What is something about your organization that the average person might not know?
GDRST also helps individuals with Great Danes who might be a victim of domestic abuse. We do not rehome these Danes, but rather bring them into our program and assist with medical and training if needed. We also help individuals who may need help with vaccines, spay or neuter. Sometimes folks just need a bit of help, but they are still committed to their dog. If the need arises we also help other breeds.
I would love to see a spay and neutering law that could be enforced along with education to help these individuals learn that spay and neutering do not hurt their animals.
Thank you, Great Dane Rescue of Southeast Texas, for all you do!
*Photos courtesy of Great Dane Rescue of Southeast Texas*
