When the Doors Opened, So Did My Heart

I used to think the hardest part of my life was the injury I sustained at work—and the ripple effect it caused in my career and daily routine. For a year, I’ve dealt with pain, physical limits, and emotional exhaustion. It was draining. But nothing, absolutely nothing, could have prepared me for the wave of emotions that hit me when I opened the doors to my rescue just over a month ago.

This journey—this calling—has been beautiful, but brutally raw.

Every day I wake up with anxiety, not knowing what that next rescue call will bring. Will it be another abandoned soul? A medical emergency? A face I’ll never forget? The weight of that uncertainty makes me want to curl up under the covers and cry myself to sleep. But I don’t. Somehow, somewhere, something inside me pushes me forward. Just enough strength. Just enough heart. Just enough hope.

Yesterday was one of those moments that reminded me of why I do this—why I have to keep doing this. I took our newest rescue, Ritz, to the vet for his first checkup. As we sat in the waiting room, I noticed a mother and son across from me. I could feel their pain before they ever said a word. Being deeply empathetic—some might even say intuitive—I just knew they weren’t there for a routine visit. And when they stood up and walked out in tears, it broke me. I cried right there in the waiting room.

This work isn’t just about saving animals. It’s about feeling—the kind of deep, soul-shaking feeling that comes from shared grief, silent goodbyes, and unspoken understanding. It’s about being present in those moments that many try to look away from.

Running a rescue is hard. It’s messy. It’s draining. But it’s also sacred. And despite the tears, the pain, the uncertainty—I wouldn’t trade this calling for anything.

Ritz’s Day Out – and a Glimpse Behind the Scenes

While yesterday held heavy emotions, it also brought joy. Ritz had a big day—he got groomed, had a full vet checkup, and officially moved out of quarantine. He’s now settling in as a full-on house baby, and you’d never know he was once a stray.

These little moments—the clean fur, the safe home, the fresh start—are everything. But they don’t happen without a great deal of effort behind the scenes.

I am the only full-time operator of Paws Place Rescue Inc. Every animal here is fed, cleaned, cared for, and transported by me. This isn’t a public facility—it’s a private, residential sanctuary where I live with these animals, where they sleep just a few feet away, and where they’re treated as family from day one.

Two days out of the week, my husband steps in to help with training. He works with the ones who need a little extra guidance—whether it’s confidence, leash manners, or trust-building. Together, we manage it all. No staff. No revolving door of volunteers. (Neighbors have assisted on occasions &thank God for them. They are so appreciated) Just heart, routine, and relentless dedication.

In Memory of Zoey – My Reason

If it wasn’t for God bringing me our Zoey, I don’t think I’d have the patience or strength to do what I do now. We originally fostered her through Whitney Animal Control, and she became family. She has since passed, but not a day goes by that I don’t feel her presence here.

Zoey taught me the meaning of unconditional love. She showed me how to be slow to anger, and how patience can move mountains. Her spirit lives in every rescue I take in. She is the reason I keep pushing, even when it’s too heavy to carry.

If you’re reading this and wondering how to help… just know that support doesn’t always mean adoption. Sometimes it’s a donation, a kind message, a share, or simply telling someone else about the work being done here.

This rescue isn’t just a mission—it’s a promise. And as long as I can breathe, I’ll keep showing up for them.

—Denise

Founder, Paws Place Rescue Inc.

📍 Whitney, TX (just outside city limits)

📧 pawsplacerescue.inc@gmail.com

📞 (945) 225-8250