Today, many reservations struggle with animal protection and control problems, such as overpopulation, feral dog packs, and abandoned animals. Partnership With Native Americans® (PWNA) offers support to Program Partners who rescue thousands of hungry and injured animals each year. 

On the border of the Omaha and Winnebago reservations of Nebraska is the 12 Hills Dog Shelter, operated by our Program Partners Nola and Chuck. For more than a decade, the couple has participated in the Animal Welfare service of PWNA’s Reservation Animal Rescue® (RAR) program. RAR Partners receive deliveries of animal care items like food and blankets throughout the year to serve their communities.  

Over the years, Sioux Falls, South Dakota resident Cori has adopted three dogs from 12 Hills. With her mom working at 12 Hills, Cori has developed a personal relationship with our Program Partners. She shared, “I would recommend no other rescue. Nola and Chuck take care of their dogs like they’re their own. They’ve never turned a dog away.” Adopters like Cori offer relief to shelters at or near capacity by offering a home away from overpopulated reservations. 

Cori’s first dog from 12 Hills was a pit bull named Jaeger who Nola said was in horrible condition when he came to the shelter. Nola told us, “He had the skin disorder of genetic mange that we had to treat monthly. Cori worked very hard to keep him healthy.” Cori added that Jaeger had a burnt back, and his hair never grew back. As Cori nursed him back to health, Jaeger supported Cori emotionally as she struggled with her own medical issues.  

Cori’s second 12 Hills pup, a 2-year-old pit bull named Mr. Bean, came a few years later. Sadly, Jaeger has passed from old age, but now Mr. Bean finally has a new, much smaller companion – Chichi. 

Chichi the chihuahua is 4 years old and was surrendered to the shelter in March 2023. Thankfully, he was in good condition and wasn’t there long before Cori brought him home. Cori was happy to share, “His energy brightens my day. I wake up to kisses.” Her kids have also bonded with Chichi, including her 8-year-old son who jumps on the bed with him.  

Cori knows that without 12 Hills’ support, she would struggle to maintain her animal care items. “They’ll give you dog food any time, and it’s very important when people don’t have money for supplies. It’s awesome they help.” Cori also receives blankets, dog beds, and puppy pads, which come in handy for training Chichi.  

Due to medical issues, Cori’s only income is through social security. To care for her children, she receives food stamps and some financial help through the federal assistance program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).  

Cori’s story is one of many who have found financial and emotional relief through RAR Program Partners like Nola and Chuck. Help more animals like Chichi find a happy home by donating to RAR today.