Mission Statement
At Pinhoti Animal Rescue, our mission is to provide compassionate care and safe haven to animals in need. We are a foster based rescue dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming abandoned, neglected, and abused animals, while advocating for their protection and well-being. Through education, community outreach, and partnerships, we strive to promote responsible pet ownership and inspire a society where all animals are treated with kindness, respect, and dignity.
Our Story
The Pinhoti Trail is known for its rugged beauty, winding through the Appalachian foothills and offering a sanctuary of nature’s serenity to those who venture along its path. For one remarkable dog however, it became a trail of survival and resilience.
Pinhoti, as we came to call him, had been wandering the trail for months. Hikers often shared stories of a friendly stray who would appear at various trailheads, gratefully accepting scraps of food from kind-hearted passersby. With his gentle demeanor and soulful eyes, he left an unforgettable impression on everyone he encountered.
But it soon became clear that Pinhoti was struggling. At some point, he injured his back either by falling or struck by a car, leaving him with injuries that severely weakened his hind legs. Despite his pain and limitations, he continued to navigate the trail as best he could, his spirit unbroken. Then, one day, everything changed.
Two dedicated women, moved by his plight, set out to find the dog they had been reading about on social media. Determined to help, they searched the area until they heard faint cries near the trailhead. Following the sounds, they discovered Pinhoti in a ditch by the railroad tracks—emaciated, injured, very weak, and unable to climb out.
The community rallied together, contributing funds to cover his care. Pinhoti was soon seen at Gadsden Animal Clinic, where his condition was assessed. X-rays showed no broken bones, but his injuries now healed caused permanent weakness in his hind legs. He runs like a rabbit and has to swing his legs up stairs or pull himself forward on his stomach. Worse still, he tested positive for heartworms, complicating his recovery. Pinhoti is healing physically and emotionally. He shows signs of anxiety around loud noises like gun shots or fireworks. Despite all he had endured, Pinhoti’s spirit remained steadfast.
Under the loving care of his veterinarian and foster family, Pinhoti began his journey toward recovery. He completed heartworm treatment and is slowly regained his strength. His resilience, along with his unwavering trust in those who cared for him, has been nothing short of inspiring.
Pinhoti’s story touched our hearts deeply. He served as a reminder of the countless animals in our rural communities who are abandoned, injured, and left to survive on their own. His courage and will to live became the driving force behind our mission.
In honor of his remarkable journey, we founded Pinhoti Animal Rescue, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming stray and abandoned animals. Pinhoti’s story continues to be the heart of our work, reminding us every day that, even in the face of adversity, hope and compassion can triumph.
Today, Pinhoti is thriving—living proof of second chances and the power of love. Thanks to him, countless other animals now have the opportunity to heal, find their forever homes, and experience the kindness they deserve.
