Animal rescue is at the heart of On The Other Side of the Fence, Inc.
We focus on dogs who need more time and care before they’re ready for a permanent home. These are dogs with medical needs, recovery challenges, or past experiences that require stability, patience, and consistent support.
We are not a rehoming service or a high-volume intake rescue.
We limit intake so each dog receives individualized care and a realistic path forward.
Hard Rescue, Done Right
Some of the dogs who come to us arrive from euthanasia lists or abandonment situations. Others need medical treatment or extended recovery before adoption is possible.
Our role is to slow the process down and do it responsibly.
Through our rescue work, dogs receive:
- Medical care and follow-up treatment
- Time to recover and stabilize
- Structured routines and humane training support
- Safe environments that prioritize well-being
- Preparation for appropriate, permanent placement
Some dogs recover in foster homes. Others remain in structured care while healing. Each decision is made based on the dog’s needs — not timelines or pressure.
Safety and Oversight
Animal welfare and youth safety guide every decision we make.
- We typically work with 1–2 dogs at a time
- Participation in animal-assisted activities is carefully assessed
- All interactions are structured and supervised
- Not every dog participates — by design
This approach allows real progress without rushing outcomes.
Dogs Currently in Our Care
🐶 Sebastian
Sebastian was found abandoned in Morriston with a large tumor that required urgent veterinary care. His treatment exceeded $1,100.
Sebastian is now tumor-free, neutered, and medically stable. Estimated to be 3–5 years old, he is a gentle, affectionate dog continuing recovery while preparing for a permanent home.
🐶 Charlie
Charlie was pulled from a California euthanasia list and transported to Florida after multiple rescue interventions.
He is a special-needs dog who requires:
- Structured environments
- Specialized safety protocols
- Gradual, professional socialization
- Consistent handling and oversight
Charlie does not participate in general programming. His care plan prioritizes safety, stability, and quality of life, with placement considered only when appropriate.
Animal-Assisted Activities (AAA)
Some dogs who are stable and well-matched may participate in Animal-Assisted Activities (AAA) within our youth programs.
These activities are:
- Educational and supportive
- Fully supervised
- Not therapy
When appropriate, structured interaction helps youth develop responsibility, patience, empathy, and consistency. Animals benefit as well, gaining positive socialization and routine in calm settings.
Why This Matters
Hard rescue takes time, resources, and commitment.
By working with a small number of dogs and pairing rescue with structured youth programs, we support:
- Humane, responsible animal care
- Reduced unnecessary euthanasia
- Youth learning accountability and empathy
- Stronger community connection
Get Involved
You can support our rescue work by:
- Donating toward veterinary care and supplies
- Fostering animals in need
- Volunteering with approved programs
- Sponsoring a rescue’s recovery journey
Every rescue deserves a second chance — and every child deserves the chance to learn compassion through action.
