The History of Bossy Paws Rescue

  I’ve always loved animals—like, really loved them. Growing up, I was that kid who would rush to save any injured bird or stray dog, trying my best to patch them up. It wasn’t just a hobby—it was like I had animal-loving superpowers. But as I got older, things got a little more real. I started fostering more pets, volunteering, and working in animal rescue, and then I had a realization: The need was endless.

For every animal I helped, there were ten more that needed saving. Shelters were overflowing, the calls kept coming, and no matter how much I did, it never felt like enough. It felt like trying to bail out a sinking ship with a teaspoon. And with every animal I rescued, I kept thinking: Why isn’t more being done? Why is the need so overwhelming?

After spending time fostering, volunteering, organizing adoption events, and even answering late-night rescue hotline calls, I was facing a tough truth: The gap between the need and the resources was enormous. Shelters were packed, and the system felt like it was breaking under the pressure. But even then, I couldn't shake the thought: I could do more.

But could I really? Between my full-time job, my life as a wife and mother, and managing the chaos of daily life (anyone else juggling work, meal prep, and helping with math homework at the same time?), starting a rescue seemed like a lot to take on.

But the need... oh, it wouldn’t let me go. One evening, while scrolling through social media posts trying to save animals and feeling like I wasn’t doing enough, I had an epiphany: I couldn’t wait for someone else to do it. If I wanted to make a difference, I had to step up.

And so, against all common sense, I decided to start a rescue.

Now, I’m going to be real—starting a rescue was never on my to-do list. It wasn’t even on my “maybe one day” list. But once that idea took hold, there was no shaking it. Suddenly, it wasn’t just a good idea; it was my life’s work.

I had no clue how to start a nonprofit, but I figured I’d learn along the way. So, I registered Bossy Paws Rescue, Googled “How to start a nonprofit,” and then called anyone I could think of—local shelters, veterinarians, businesses, even a relative who’s a lawyer. At night, after the family went to bed, I’d stay up late typing up business plans, feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders.

But then, something amazing started to happen.

The first few animals we helped were more than just “rescue pets.” They were the first real proof that this crazy idea could work. And as our team grew and more animals found their homes, I realized—I wasn’t in this alone. I had a whole squad of incredible volunteers and fosters who were just as passionate as I was. That made all the difference.

Of course, it wasn’t always smooth sailing. There were plenty of days I wondered if I had bitten off more than I could chew. There were late nights where I questioned if it was all worth it. How could I possibly juggle all this and still manage to be a good mom and wife? Could I even make a dent in the problem?

But then, I’d get a message from a foster family saying that the dog I rescued was curled up on a couch, finally getting the love they deserved. Or I’d hear about a cat finding their forever family, and I’d see photos of them snuggling in their new home. Those moments made the stress worth it.

Every time a pet found their perfect match, I knew we were doing something right. And every victory, no matter how small, kept me going.

Sure, there were sacrifices along the way. I gave up some quiet nights with my husband (sorry, babe!) and even a few walks in the park. But honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Helping animals stopped being just a passion—it became my calling. And somehow, between the chaos of daily life, I felt like I was doing exactly what I was meant to do.

With determination, a lot of coffee, and an amazing team, Bossy Paws Rescue started to grow. What began as a wild idea turned into something bigger than I ever imagined. We found homes for more pets, reached more people, and, most importantly, started to see real change in the lives of these animals.

But let’s be clear, it wasn’t always easy. There were plenty of times when I thought I was in over my head. But every time I saw a family smiling with their new pet or heard the story of an animal getting a second chance, I knew this was worth it.

Bossy Paws Rescue is still growing. We save more animals every day, and I’m lucky to have an incredible team of volunteers and fosters who help make it all happen. Together, we’re making a difference.

And no matter how tough it gets, I’ll never stop fighting for the animals who need us.

- Sincerely ...  The Foundress of Fur-titude