About Us

2nd Chance Paws is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal rescue organization based in Roy, Washington. Our mission is simple yet profound: to give abused, abandoned, and neglected animals a second chance at life. Guided by the belief that “every rescued paw is a promise fulfilled,” we provide each animal with the care, love, and respect they deserve on their journey from crisis to a loving home. By rescuing vulnerable pets and placing them in safe, happy families, we not only save animal lives – we also enrich the community through compassion and responsible pet ownership.

Our Mission and Purpose

At 2nd Chance Paws, we exist to rescue, heal, and rehome animals in need so they can live full, happy lives. Every dog or cat we save gets a fresh start – a second chance to trust, to love, and to live fully. We are a no-kill rescue, which means every animal we take in is safe from euthanasia due to space or time limits. Our core purpose is to ensure that no innocent animal is left to suffer, and that each one finds a loving family of their own. In fulfilling this purpose, we also promote kindness and humane values in our community, creating a better world for animals and people.

How We Began

2nd Chance Paws was founded by Jessica Shepard, a lifelong animal advocate who turned her passion into action. After witnessing countless pets suffering from neglect and the heartbreak of homeless animals – some even facing cruel fates in slaughterhouses or high-kill environments – Jessica was determined to make a difference. What began as one woman’s mission to save a few animals has grown into a community-wide effort. Since our founding, volunteers and supporters have rallied together to rescue and rehabilitate dogs and cats that had nowhere else to turn. Today, 2nd Chance Paws stands as proof that caring people can change animals’ lives for the better.

What We Do: Rescue, Rehabilitate & Rehome

Every day, 2nd Chance Paws works hard to save animals and give them the bright future they deserve. Our efforts focus on every step of the rescue journey:

  1. Rescue: We actively identify and save at-risk dogs and cats – whether they are homeless on the streets, trapped in abusive situations, or even destined for slaughter. No matter how dire the situation, we believe every animal deserves help and hope.

  2. Recovery: After rescue, each animal receives full medical care and rehabilitation. We provide veterinary treatment, healthy food, and a nurturing environment to heal physical wounds and emotional scars. Many arrive scared or hurt, but in our care they begin to recover trust and strength.

  3. Rehome: Once our dogs and cats are healthy and happy again, we work tirelessly to find them loving forever homes. Through careful screening, adoption events, and foster-to-adopt programs, we match each animal with a caring family that is just right for them.

  4. Ongoing Support: Our commitment doesn’t end when an animal is adopted – we keep going. We stay in touch with adopters and offer follow-up support to ensure a smooth transition. As one animal leaves for their new home, we open our arms to rescue another in need.

We also engage in public education – teaching our community about pet welfare, the importance of spaying/neutering, and how to prevent animal cruelty. Whether it’s rehabilitating a terrified dog from an abusive past or bottle-feeding orphaned kittens, we do whatever it takes to give animals a new lease on life.

A Nonprofit for Public Benefit

2nd Chance Paws is proud to be a federally recognized 501(c)(3) public charity, operating exclusively for charitable purposes and public benefit. Our rescue efforts help both animals and communities. By reducing stray populations and placing animals in safe homes, we make neighborhoods safer and more compassionate.

All contributions go directly toward rescuing animals, providing veterinary care, and sustaining our programs. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. We are committed to transparency, ethical operations, and responsible stewardship of every gift.


Together, We Give Second Chances. Whether you adopt, volunteer, or donate, you become part of our mission to save lives and spread compassion. Thank you for believing in second chances — and in us.


Website: 2ndchancepaws.com
Address: 2514 293RD ST S, ROY, WA, 98580-7705, USA
Email: [email protected]

"With every paw we hold, every life we save, we’re not just helping animals - we’re giving them a second chance to trust, to love, and to live fully"

Jessica Shepard

FOUNDER