Right in the heart of Buffalo, abandoned, injured and displaced dogs get a second chance at a better life through Buffalo Underdogs Rescue, a local nonprofit organization that has been operating since 2018. The group dedicates its time, energy and resources to rescuing overlooked dogs from shelters and placing them in foster homes where they are prepared for adoption.
“It all just depends on who comes into the shelter and who’s the most in need. Most of our dogs are bully breeds and hounds, but that’s just because they need us the most,” said Kristie Hunnell, president of Buffalo Underdogs Rescue. An “undesired” breed does not mean it is an unlovable dog.
Buffalo Underdogs Rescue receives no federal funding, so fundraising events like “Pups on the Patio,” “Pasta for Pups,” “Pictures with Santa” and “Speakeasy Night” help cover supplies and medical expenses the dogs may require. The Buffalo community is welcomed and encouraged to interact with the volunteers, fosters and the underdogs themselves.
On October 4, Phoenix Rising Equine Rescue invited Buffalo Underdogs Rescue for the perfect match-up. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., visitors were encouraged to engage with horses and puppies while enjoying fall-inspired, family-friendly activities such as pony rides and pumpkin picking. Underdogs captured the attention of wandering guests with their soulful eyes, unique personalities and incredible stories.
Rosie and Percy were found abandoned in Texas. The puppies were taken to Jasper Animal Shelter in Jasper, Texas, until they were ready to be transported to Buffalo. One dog, Polly, was dumped on the streets and left to survive on her own. She developed an infection on her front left toe after walking alone on concrete for so long. Polly received medical treatment funded by Buffalo Underdogs Rescue and is now with her foster mom, who ensures she will never again face the harm of hot pavement.
Rachel Hewitt, an active foster, has been with Buffalo Underdogs Rescue since June 2024. She has fostered ten dogs with the organization but has been volunteering with the Buffalo Animal Shelter for years. Not every dog has been abused or neglected, but an overwhelming number of animals are mistreated and overlooked — leading to a point where local shelters can no longer keep up with the influx.
“ [Many of the rescues are] dogs that people find right here in Buffalo, and they’re in awful shape. Half of the dogs, I would say, are housing issues — they’re family dogs where people had rough times, couldn’t find housing, couldn’t afford them, things like that. But the other half? They’re neglected, they’re abused, they need a second chance. And these dogs are lovable too,” said Hewitt.
Buffalo Underdogs Rescue takes in dogs who have experienced brutal and cruel circumstances. Many require medical treatment or extensive behavioral training. Annabelle, one of Rachel’s foster dogs, was found covered in horrific burns.
“They found her on Amherst Street, totally burned. They don’t know what happened or why she was covered in burns. I saw her come into the shelter, and Kristie said, ‘Oh, that’s an underdog,’” Hewitt recalled.
Annabelle had every reason to be timid, reactive and aggressive. Yet today, she is the happiest girl, now living on a farm with a family who adores her.
Hughie, another previous foster, was locked in a pantry for his entire life before coming to the rescue. He is a goofy and playful dog that loves attention, but Hughie was a difficult dog to foster when Rachel first got him. His past made him frantic with pent-up energy waiting to burst out. Extensive behavioral training with Rachel and his new family has shaped Hughie into a well-behaved boy.
Every few months, Buffalo Underdogs Rescue receives a transport of new mom dogs, puppies and abandoned animals from Jasper Animal Shelter. On October 5, Nichole Tryon, another active foster, received a new playmate with a heartbreaking story. Miss Love, a puppy found emaciated and dehydrated, had infectious wounds covering her body and only moments left to survive when rescued.
“She was found in a tub, in a house with her mouth taped shut,” said Hunnell. Miss Love’s jawbone was shattered and will likely require surgery here in Buffalo to recover from the torture she endured.
No one at Buffalo Underdogs Rescue claims their work is easy — it is a difficult and strenuous role. But they have the opportunity to give animals a real chance at the life they deserve.
“Saving a dog that didn’t have a chance otherwise is beyond gratifying,” said Hunnell.
“People tell us as fosters all the time, ‘Why don’t you adopt it?’ Because we’re saving another,” said Tryon.
Buffalo Underdogs Rescue typically has between 50 and 70 dogs within its foster system at any given time. As the organization continues to grow, it is also seeking new help, and fostering is not the only option. Volunteers can work on fundraisers, verify foster applications, and participate in their “doggy Uber” system.
“You can come to events, and it’s relaxing—have a beer and meet six or seven dogs,” said Hewitt.
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