Diamonds in the Ruff
At HLCR, we believe every dog deserves a second chance. Our mission centers on rescuing the forgotten ones: dogs with special medical and behavioral needs who often face uncertain futures. In Central Texas, where few organizations have the resources to care for these vulnerable animals, we step in to fill that critical gap.
These precious souls, our "Diamonds in the Ruff," may arrive broken or overlooked, but we see their hidden potential. Through dedicated rehabilitation and unwavering compassion, we transform these unpolished gems into beloved family members, proving that with the right care, every dog can shine.
Cosmo
Cosmo is a small spotted boy whose past was harder than any dog should ever endure. Rescued from a hoarding situation with nearly a hundred other dogs in Llano County, Cosmo spent years in neglect, living in conditions no animal deserves. During that time, another dog chewed off his tail, which required amputation. Despite everything he's been through, Cosmo is still here, still fighting, and still deserving of the love he is only just now experiencing.
Dahlia
When Dahlia first arrived at HLCR, she was severely malnourished and weighed a heartbreaking 39 pounds, which is a far cry from the typical 85 to 115 pounds for a healthy female Great Pyrenees. In her early days, she spent most of her time resting and regaining her strength. Thanks to the dedication of a loving foster family, Dahlia has bloomed into a resilient Diamond in the Ruff, now weighing 65 pounds and making incredible strides toward a full recovery.
Dahlia is currently thriving in foster care!
Fang
Fang’s story is a powerful testament to survival and second chances. Found abandoned by the roadside with paralyzed back legs, an MRI uncovered that he had been shot, leaving a BB pellet lodged next to his spine. As one of our Diamonds in the Ruff, Fang received emergency spinal surgery and specialized care. He has since regained most mobility and brings endless joy and light to his foster family as he continues to heal.
Flynn
Flynn is a sweet young adult dog who was rescued from a severe hoarding situation alongside 49 other dogs. Recognized as a true Diamond in the Ruff, Flynn is now safe with HLCR and learning every day what patience and kindness feel like. Though his start in life was difficult, he has his whole future ahead of him and is working towards the day he can finally go home for good.
Gus
Anxious but spirited, Gus is a young German Shepherd mix eager to learn that the world isn't so scary. He thrives around other dogs, so he’ll do best with a confident canine mentor and dog-savvy adopters who can help channel his energy, guide his training, and let his playful side shine.
Jewel
Jewel is currently heartworm positive and will need to complete treatment before she's fully cleared for her next chapter. Treatment means a period of rest and restricted activity, so she'll need a calm environment and a patient hand while she heals. The good news is that heartworm is treatable, and Jewel is young and otherwise healthy. The dog on the other side of treatment is the same sweet girl she is right now, just ready to go on walks again.
Luna
At ten years old, Luna is proof that age is just a number. This cancer survivor and total goofball still has plenty of energy and personality to spare! While she does have ongoing skin and allergy issues that require a grain-free diet, Luna doesn't let anything slow down her fun-loving spirit. She's an absolute hoot who will keep you laughing with her silly antics and remind you daily that life is meant to be enjoyed. Luna is looking for a special family who understands that the best diamonds need a little extra care to truly shine, and in return, she'll give you all the love, laughter, and entertainment you could ever want from a furry best friend.
Moose
When Moose first arrived, we thought he was suffering from a broken leg. However, his vet visit revealed a much more heartbreaking truth: Moose had been shot, and both his leg and tail are peppered with hundreds of birdshot pellets. While we are still waiting to see if his leg and tail can be saved, Moose refuses to let his painful past break his spirit. Despite everything he has endured, he shows up every single day as an incredibly loving, resilient, and friendly dog who is just grateful for kindness.
Poppy
Poppy needs a unique home situation: she must be the only pet and needs an advocate, a patient teacher, and most importantly, someone who won't give up on her. If you have experience with behaviorally complex dogs, live alone or with adults only, have secure property, and believe that every dog deserves a chance at love, Poppy might be waiting for you.
Tailgate
Tailgate came to us from the Lampasas Animal Shelter after being diagnosed with double hip dysplasia and bilateral luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps) in his back legs. While LAS was able to raise initial funding for his care, the road ahead requires specialized surgeries and an intensive recovery process that exceeded their resources. Despite his mobility challenges, Tailgate’s gentle and trusting spirit shines through in everything he does. He is a true "Diamond in the Ruff"—a sweet, innocent soul who just needs a dedicated team in his corner to help him heal.
Tippy
Tippy is a one-of-a-kind Border Collie mix with brains, personality, and a spirit that refuses to be slowed down. This remarkable girl has a moderate neurological condition that causes some uncoordinated movements like wobbling, high-stepping, and occasional depth perception challenges. But here's the thing about Tippy: she doesn't let it define her. She's a great sport about her unique way of moving through the world, and honestly, it just makes her even more endearing.