About Us
and the inspiration behind our name...
Our Story
Since 2017, our dedicated team of volunteers has rescued thousands of dogs, focusing on giving second chances to the injured, abandoned, and overlooked. Building on years of experience under a different organization, Second Start Rescue is a new start that strengthens our commitment to saving lives and expanding our impact.
Second Start Rescue was co-founded by Jennifer Aufdenberg and a team of animal advocates and supporters who share a passion for animal welfare. As a co-founder of Shenandoah Shepherd Rescue (SSR), Jennifer and a dedicated group of individuals helped rescue over 3,500 dogs, primarily shepherds, from high-kill shelters and difficult circumstances. This work in SSR laid the foundation for a community of supporters and volunteers dedicated to giving dogs a second chance at life.
Our mission centers on rescuing and rehabilitating dogs from the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) of Texas, an area with one of the highest rates of animal abandonment in the country. While shepherds are our primary focus, we extend our care to any dog in critical need, prioritizing those who face the greatest challenges.
With Second Start Rescue, we’re doubling down on our efforts to address the root causes of animal homelessness. Our goals include implementing spay and neuter programs, offering community outreach and education, and providing compassionate care to every animal we rescue. Together, we aim to create lasting change for dogs, their communities, and the people who love them.
Their Story
Blackie and Whitey came from Billy’s Street, a mile-long stretch of hardship in Texas where stray dogs fought to survive. Blackie’s story was one of unimaginable cruelty—he had been poisoned and shot in the face, yet he held on with a quiet strength that inspired everyone who met him. Whitey, found frail and lifeless, defied all odds. Over 20 incredible days, she fought for her life, making a miraculous recovery and capturing the hearts of the nation.
Their resilience united a community. Strangers rallied together, following their journeys with hope, tears, and unwavering support. Blackie’s gentle soul and Whitey’s determination reminded us all why second chances matter. Though their lives were unjustly cut short, they left behind a legacy of love, courage, and compassion.
Today, their story is at the heart of Second Start Rescue. Our logo honors their memory, and their impact lives on in every dog we save. Blackie and Whitey brought us together, and they continue to inspire us to fight for the voiceless, no matter how difficult the journey.
Shannon Leary Welsh, MD
We were blessed to have Whitey for a little over a week. She taught us so much and showed us that all of our animals could accommodate any medical animal coming in. We miss her dearly and wish we had more time with her. She was sweet and silly. She loved to play with toys and our dogs! She will forever be with us.
Laurie Semmel, NY
I had the honor of being Stetson’s (Blackie’s) mom for the last 5.5 months of his short life. In the short time he was with us, he taught me how to live better. Despite being horribly abused and neglected, he loved life, he loved other dogs, he still loved people!!! This is exactly what unconditional love looks like and he was a reminder to me every single day of how to live! I miss him everyday, so very much. But I carry him and his lesson to me in my heart.
Shannon Martens, WV
Whitey and Blackie meant much more than just the Rescue of two pups. They meant love, compassion, strength, healing, endurance…And yes, loss. But, those of us who supported these two beautiful souls watched people come together for an amazing cause. The cause this rescue was founded on - to rescue those GSDs in need and give them fresh starts.