Our Mission

Hounds in Pounds is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit rescue rooted in compassion and driven by purpose. Based in New Jersey, we are dedicated to giving dogs on death row and from underserved communities across Georgia and the South a second chance at life. As one of the region’s leading rescue organizations, we provide critical veterinary care, thoughtful behavioral support, and inclusive, informed adoption practices that unite families with their perfect companions. At our core, we believe rescue is about more than saving dogs—it’s about building stronger, kinder communities. Our heart lies within the community.

Our Story – Community is at our core

Hounds in Pounds was founded in 2015 by a small-town girl expecting to save a few dogs. Since our inception, we have saved countless lives and become a lifeline for shelters throughout the southeast.

We do not discriminate against ANY breed; that’s because we are a genuine rescue, and we will help as many dogs as possible. Our primary goal is to get them into safe, responsible, and loving homes. We hope that someday all of them make it out, but we will never forget those who do not.

If we can help save a life, we will. If we save a litter of puppies, we save the mothers; mama dogs are often bred for their puppies and left behind with a grim future ahead of them. If we save a male, we save a female. If we rescue a puppy, we save a senior; if we rescue a purebred, we save a mix. We do not discriminate- no life, no matter what, is unworthy of love and a second chance.

Each dog we pull to safety is a family member treated with the utmost love and respect.

Many dogs we rescue are cases no one else will take; our motto at HIP is to “never say never.” We take on cases that others have deemed hopeless and help rewrite their futures.

To be clear, we are working on their behalf. These dogs are our heroes, and we look to them for hope, inspiration, and sometimes the strength to keep going.

We also consider our followers, donors, adopters, rescue partners, and the rescue community a direct extension of our team. Without these moving parts, Hounds in Pounds wouldn’t be able to do what we do.