"More than a decade ago, I witnessed the compassionate efforts of the staff and volunteers caring for dogs at Highland Lakes Canine Rescue. Having rescued two dogs, one on the verge of euthanasia due to time in a public shelter, I’ve experienced the transformative power of care. I had been looking for ways to become more involved in my community and this little no-kill shelter provided my opportunity to be part of group addressing a significant need in our area and a cause dear to my heart.

Now, I devote my time to Highland Lakes Canine Rescue, a wonderful shelter that takes in dogs with treatable health and behavioral challenges from area public shelters that aren’t likely to be adopted and that may face euthanasia. Our staff and volunteers provide them with the care, treatment and training needed to address their conditions so they can find loving homes. It’s my way of helping to ensure that every dog, regardless of their past or present struggles, has the opportunity for a brighter future."

"I certainly never would have predicted, that at the age of fifty-one (after growing up in a home that was
never without a cat) that I would become a dog person – but that’s what’s happened! After adopting
my first dog from HLCR fifteen years ago (and three others since then), a friend pulled me into sharing a
dog-walking volunteer shift with her, and I’ve never left! It’s been rewarding and FUN to be able to
utilize my time and business experience to further a cause I’m passionate about. And most of all it’s
fulfilling to be part of a team committed to a framework for decision making that always asks, “what’s best for the dog?”.
 

What drew me to HLCR were the dogs, the people and the unique environment and care HLCR, its staff
and volunteers provide to these abandoned dogs who can’t speak for themselves and who oftentimes
are considered disposable because they’re not perfect. What keeps me here is all the above plus those great days when a Clover, a Ruby, or a Ryder who were sick, scared or scarred finally go to their perfect homes!"

Chelsea brings more than a decade of animal welfare experience and has worked in nearly every aspect of the field. She has a special passion for dogs with medical or behavioral challenges and believes every dog deserves the opportunity to be understood, cared for and given the chance to thrive.
 

As Executive Director, Chelsea will focus on building community relationships, expanding donor and sponsor support, increasing volunteer engagement and developing new resources to help HLCR continue to focus on our mission to care for and treat dogs with special medical and behavioral needs so they can find their forever families.

"I spent the first 45 years of my life living in Colorado, and had wonderful 24 year career with Farmers Insurance.   After having a full life of working and raising children, I wasn’t sure what to do with my time after retiring and moving to the Hill Country.
 

I had a friend who was on the board at Highland Lakes Canine Rescue (which I had never heard of), and knowing what a dog lover I am, she asked if I’d be interested in being a volunteer. And so it began!

I did the training so I learned how to properly handle and walk the dogs, along with participating at adoption events.  I have to admit after my first adoption event, I was worried that I couldn’t handle the emotions that came with the job.  I got very attached to one of the dogs and just bawled as I watched him getting loaded back into the van. Then I got the call the very next day that little Fonzie got adopted!

It didn’t take long to just be in awe witnessing the devotion and hard work by the staff, the board, and volunteers that truly made this a very unique and loving rescue facility.  I was so impressed with the size of the outside yards, the cleanliness of the inside kennels, and the giving attitude of everyone involved.

Ten years later, I'm very thankful to have been given the opportunity to be part of such a great organization!"

"I'm a former Sales Associate with Merrill Lynch for 38 years. I worked most of my career in Houston and transferred to Austin in 2018, retiring in June 2022. My neighbor and fellow Board member, Micheala Black, hooked me into helping out at the shelter’s annual fundraiser “Diamonds in the Ruff,” Putts 4 Pups and walking dogs one summer. I fell in love with the dogs.

Even though I wanted to, I have never been involved with a dog shelter or rescue prior to HLCR. I was afraid my emotions would get the best of me and I would be sad. But when I visited HLCR for the very first time, I was so impressed at how organized and clean it was – how happy all the dogs were. I knew then that this was a place I wanted to be associated with.

HLCR is special to me because when my Dad recently lost his dog that he loved, I knew I would be able to find him a dog that would fit his lifestyle. That he could welcome a new fur baby into his home to love as much as loved his other dog. HLCR dogs are taken care of and loved during their time here. I am thrilled to be on the board and getting the chance to help the dogs in any way I can."

"After spending 17 years abroad, my journey led me to the Hill Country, where I began volunteering with CASA as a court appointed advocate for children. When the pandemic hit and we couldn't engage with the kids, I found HLCR through Facebook and began volunteering to walk dogs. Soon after, I was approached to take on the role of volunteer coordinator, and since I was already attending the monthly meetings, joining the board felt like a natural step.

Initially, I worried that every visit to the shelter might leave me in tears. But I instead found myself looking forward to spending time with the dogs and witnessing their care. The shelter wasn't just transforming the lives of these animals; it was making a tangible impact by raising awareness about local issues. The shelter's efforts were about fostering a sense of community and compassion.

It's been a journey filled with unexpected joys and the satisfaction of knowing that our work is making a real difference."

"What an amazing turn of events it was that led me from teaching elementary art to falling in love with what was at that time, a small mostly volunteer run shelter in the middle of the hill country!

Fourteen years ago I took advantage of an invitation from another volunteer to come take a look and see if this shelter was something I might enjoy once I retired. Initially, I thought I'd volunteer to stay active and spend time with the dogs, but I never imagined the depth of my involvement in this special place. I fell in love on my first visit and continue to marvel at the growth of this shelter and its mission. 

I’m privileged to witness first-hand the miracles that take place daily as our dedicated staff transform the lives of our rescues, both medically and behaviorally, and provide the gift of time for each dog to heal and transform in body and spirit. Celebrating these transformations and then seeing each dog adopted is truly rewarding!

Our shelter’s purpose is unique, filling a niche that no other area shelter does. HLCR is small but mighty and I’m so proud to be a part of helping our rescues on the road to connecting with their forever families."

"I volunteer at HLCR because of its mission. Dogs with special needs are given the opportunity to be rehabilitated and then found their forever homes. It is a unique place with a great purpose."