Wisconsin has become a refuge for stray and unwanted dogs from Texas, where the problem is overwhelming. Texas, known for its high stray population, sees an alarming number of dogs euthanized—over 61,000 annually, the highest in the nation.

Brenda Walsh, working in the Texas Panhandle, faces the daunting task of finding homes for these dogs. “There’s just not enough homes,” she says, pointing out the lack of enforcement on spay/neuter regulations, which exacerbates the issue. Many dogs end up being abandoned in fields or left to wander, according to Gazettxtra.

In Wisconsin, shelters like Hoovers Hause All Dog Rescue in North Prairie step in to help. Founded by Sharon Runkel, the shelter has rescued thousands of dogs, many flown in by volunteers from Pilots N Paws. These dogs are placed in foster homes, awaiting adoption.

While some dogs, like the popular Shih Tzus, find homes quickly, others, particularly pit bulls, wait longer. The effort to rescue these dogs is a labor of love, ensuring they get a second chance at a happy life far from the challenges of the South.

Yoli & Ritz were at a high-kill shelter at full capacity, but the Friends of Texas Panhandle Shelter Pets rushed to save them. Foster homes were found in WI, but that meant the sweet pups needed to travel via multiple states to reach their home, credit X