.png)
About Us
Hound Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Central Texas, dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of hounds—primarily beagles and beagle mixes. We focus on dogs who are most at risk: those abandoned in high-intake shelters, surrendered by owners unable to continue care, or found in neglectful or unsafe situations. Our mission is to ensure that every hound we take in receives the medical attention, behavioral support, and compassion they need to recover and thrive.
​
We do not operate a physical shelter. Instead, our organization relies entirely on a network of committed foster homes that provide temporary care and stability while we work to place each dog in a permanent, loving home. Our team is made up of 100% volunteers—individuals who donate their time, skills, and energy to support every step of the rescue process, from intake and transport to veterinary coordination, outreach, and adoption.
​
As a foster-based rescue, we see each dog as an individual. Many arrive with medical needs, emotional trauma, or no prior experience living in a safe, indoor environment. We provide tailored care and support to help them heal—physically and emotionally—before they are placed in carefully screened adoptive homes.
​
Every dollar raised goes directly to the dogs. Donations fund veterinary treatment, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgeries, microchipping, food, transport, and supplies. Because we are entirely volunteer-run, we are able to dedicate our resources where they are needed most: saving lives and giving hounds a second chance.
​
At Hound Rescue, our goal is not just to place dogs—but to restore hope. For the animals we save. For the families who adopt. And for the belief that compassion, when acted upon, can truly change lives.
Sara Figueroa
President
Sara Figueroa is passionate about helping homeless hounds find safe, loving homes. She brings extensive leadership, financial, and operational experience to the organization through her professional role as a Chief Financial Officer.
​
Outside of rescue, Sara enjoys reading, spending time by the pool with her family, and taking on overly ambitious projects. She lives with her husband, Matthew, and a lively pack of hounds who keep life entertaining. She also operates Hound House Coffee, a mission-driven coffee brand that supports rescue efforts through every purchase.
​
Sara believes in second chances, practical solutions, and the power of a dedicated community to make a difference for dogs in need.
Ashley Franklin
Vice President
Ashley Franklin first joined Hound Rescue as an adopter and quickly became a dedicated donor and volunteer. Her passion for rescue, combined with her commitment to helping homeless hounds, led her to take on increasing leadership responsibilities within the organization.
​
Ashley currently serves as Vice President of Hound Rescue, where she helps guide the organization's mission and supports daily rescue operations. Professionally, she is an attorney whose attention to detail and problem-solving skills are valuable assets to the board.
​
Outside of rescue work, Ashley enjoys traveling, spending time with her family, and sharing life with her beloved pack of hounds.
Whitney Thomas
Secretary
Whitney Thomas is a dedicated Hound Rescue adopter, volunteer, and foster who has opened her home to countless hounds over the years. Her passion for rescue and commitment to helping dogs in need have made her an invaluable part of the organization.
​
As Secretary of Hound Rescue, Whitney brings both compassion and organization to the board. Professionally, she works in the counseling field, helping others navigate life's challenges.
​
Outside of rescue, Whitney enjoys traveling, relaxing by the pool, and hosting legendary crawfish boils. A devoted animal lover, her family includes a pack of hounds, as well as cats and chickens.
​
Cindy Haas
Treasurer
Cindy Haas is Hound Rescue’s longest-serving volunteer, with over two decades of commitment to giving beagles a second chance. She’s been involved in nearly every part of the mission, and her steady presence and compassion continue to shape the organization.
​
A CPA and owner of Pink Business Advisors, Cindy brings 20+ years of experience in accounting, consulting, and business development. She also serves on the Westlake Chamber of Commerce Board and is known for her pragmatic, people-first leadership.
​
She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from the University of Texas and is a loyal Longhorn fan. Cindy is also a proud aunt of seven, balancing family, football, and fostering beagles.
Shannon Hall
Board Director
Shannon Hall is a longtime volunteer with Hound Rescue who’s never met a beagle she didn’t adore. She recently moved back to Kansas City to be closer to family, including two young nieces who keep her happily busy outside of work.
​
Shannon works in clinical research and is currently pursuing her master’s degree while balancing a career in corporate human resources. Her approach to both people and pups is grounded in empathy, clarity, and a deep appreciation for second chances.
​
At home, she’s mom to two beagles and a herding mix who insists he’s one of them. When she’s not working, studying, or wrangling her hounds, you’ll likely find her rooting for the Kansas City Chiefs or catching a quiet moment before the next round of chaos begins.
.png)
Dr. Riley Ward, DVM
Board Director
Dr. Ward earned her BS in Biology from Auburn University (War Eagle!) and her DVM from Midwestern University. She moved to Austin with her fiancé, Craig, and their two pups, and now works as a small animal veterinarian at Daylily Animal Hospital—where she also helps care for the hounds of Hound Rescue.
​
A lifelong dog lover (especially beagles), Dr. Ward feels lucky to combine her clinical work with her passion for rescue.
​
When she’s not at the clinic, you’ll probably find her out at the lake, watching whatever sport is in season, or spending time with friends and family.