From Rescue to Recovery: How Reservation Animal Rescue Supports Communities

Published May 27, 2025 By Moderator

As we celebrate National Pet Month with our furry friends, we reflect on the challenges in providing care and shelter for pets, especially on remote reservations. At Partnership With Native Americans (PWNA), our Reservation Animal Rescue (RAR) program addresses these barriers and strives to improve the outcomes of animals on reservations, promoting safe and healthy communities.

A recent study by PetSmart Charities and Gallup found that 52% of American pet owners cite financial reasons for declining veterinary care. Additionally, the American Pet Products Association found that in 2023 alone, individuals spent $147 billion on their pets. As costs continue to increase, this paints a sobering reality for animal welfare across the nation, with disparities felt more acutely on reservations, where resources are scarce, making barriers to care daunting.

At 12 Hills Dog Rescue, an Omaha-based nonprofit family-run rescue, every donation makes a difference in providing animals with a safe, loving home. “It’s very overwhelming to receive those kinds of things that someone would be generous like that,” said Nola B., Program Partner at 12 Hills. “We want to thank the donors. The disinfectants, wipes, paper towels, toys, leashes, collars – not only do we use them here at the rescue, but we also give them to people who adopt.”

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, roughly 6.5 million animals enter shelters yearly, yet only about 3.2 million are adopted¹. Due to its no-kill policy, 12 Hills is at full capacity and continues to take in dogs from surrounding states. National data shows that these challenges remain immense. While euthanasia rates have declined from 13% in 2019 to 8% in 2024, the rate of adoptions has not significantly alleviated the number of animals in shelters. With RAR’s support, 12 Hills and similar organizations can continue to be beacons of hope in areas with scant resources for animal care.

As we celebrate the joy pets bring into our lives this month, let’s also commit to making a positive impact.

Here’s how you can make a difference:

Adopt, don’t shop! If you’re planning on getting a furry friend, check out nearby animal rescues and shelters.
Consider making a one-time or recurring donation to RAR to help the program continue its support of animal welfare groups.
Stay informed about the unique challenges faced by reservation animal rescues and spread the word.