PAWS Shelter of Central Texas
Our Mission
PAWS Shelter of Central Texas envisions a future where our community celebrates the human-animal bond, pet overpopulation is solved, and every adoptable animal is ensured a loving, permanent home. We are dedicated to ending animal suffering and protecting the pets that share our lives.
Since 1986
Based in Dripping Springs, we have been serving Hays County and the surrounding areas for nearly four decades. What began as a local effort to help vulnerable animals has grown into a vital community resource focused on rescue, medical care, and finding forever families.
How We Help
As a no-kill rescue, we operate a dedicated shelter facility that serves as a safe haven while animals wait for their new families. We pull animals from community shelters and rural rescues across Central Texas, providing them with enrichment-based care, behavioral training, and medical support in our own on-site surgery center.
Building Lifelong Bonds
We believe that successful adoption is about more than just finding a pet; it is about creating a lasting, joyful partnership. Our team provides thoughtful adoption counseling to ensure each animal is matched with a home that fits their personality, energy level, and specific needs, helping them thrive in their next chapter.
Join Our Mission
Whether you are looking to adopt a new family member, volunteer your time, or support our life-saving programs through a donation, you are an essential part of our success. We invite you to visit us in Dripping Springs, browse our current adoptable residents, or explore the many ways you can get involved today.
Trust Assessment
GoldRated Aug 20, 2026
NonprofitVerifiedPhysical FacilityOperating 30+ years
FinancesOnline Review Highlights
- Compassionate staff
- Clear mission
- Rigid adoption policies
Vetted by
How we assessCoverage We Reviewed
Hays Free Press and News-Dispatch
9/30 - Kyle City Council talks animal shelter, potential animal advisory board
We are your official news source that has been serving the Hays County community since 1903.
Hays Free Press and News-Dispatch
Improves Trust
9/30 - PAWS merger aims to expand animal care in Hays County, reopen Kyle shelter
We are your official news source that has been serving the Hays County community since 1903.
Yahoo News
7/30 - PAWS to close Kyle animal shelter amid ongoing financial challenges
Nearly a year after community members rallied to help keep PAWS of Central Texas afloat through a fundraising campaign that brought in more than $60,000, the nonprofit animal shelter has announced it ...
Recent Videos
10/10 - This video is from last weekend, the day before we lost Tristan. We’re so glad we captured this moment… he loved Scooby SO much. It will be a very special day when Scooby gets adopted…he’s been waiting over a year. Please help us do this in Tristan’s honor. 3 year old Scooby is ready 🤎 *Dripping Springs, TX* Scooby is the ultimate people lover, affectionate and silly and loving. He’s the perfect hiking buddy and also the ultimate couch potato lap-lover! Scooby loves to play and splash in water and show off his fetch and tug-of-war skills. Other things to know: -He does best with female dogs -He shouldn’t live with kitties -Housebroken -Crate trained Adopt Scoobers 🤎 #adoptashelterpet #dogsofinstagram #cutedogs #dogreels #adoptdontshop
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10/4 - All she wants is someone to get to know her keep her forever ❤️🩹 6 year old Nala Bell is your classic lovable bully mix with a big personality and an even bigger heart! She loves playing with toys and shows off the cutest wiggle butt when she’s excited. This girl is extremely food-motivated, so much so that treats make her droll with excitement. She’s already familiar with several commands and is extremely eager to learn and show off her skills. We think she’s a pretty smart pup! Nala would do best in a home with older children and would prefer to be the only furry companion. She is not a big fan of cats or other dogs, but she makes up for it with plenty of love to give her people. While she’s confident in many ways, Nala can feel nervous when she’s alone, especially during thunderstorms, and is looking for a home where she can feel safe and supported. This sweet, smart girl is looking for a pet-free home with an experienced owner who can help guide her and give her the peaceful life she deserves. If you’re looking for a loyal companion with lots of love to share, Nala Bell may be the perfect match! #bullybreed #pitbulllove #adoptashelterpet #cutedogs #dogreels
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10/3 - 3 year old Scooby is ready to be adopted already! 🤎🥹 *Dripping Springs, TX* Scooby is the ultimate people lover, affectionate and silly and loving. He’s the perfect hiking buddy and also the ultimate couch potato lap-lover! Scooby loves to play and splash in water and show off his fetch and tug-of-war skills. Other things to know: -He does best with female dogs -He shouldn’t live with kitties -Housebroken -Crate trained If you’re interested in adopting Scooby, all pets’ fees are waived tomorrow, October 3rd! Apply for him on our website… he’s waiting for someone amazing to come scoop him up 🤎 #adoptashelterpet #dogsofinstagram #cutedogs #dogreels #meangirlsday
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10/2 - 3 year old Scooby is ready 🤎 Scooby is the ultimate people lover, affectionate and silly and loving. He’s the perfect hiking buddy and also the ultimate couch potato lap-lover! Scooby loves to play and splash in water and show off his fetch and tug-of-war skills. Other things to know: -He does best with female dogs -He shouldn’t live with kitties -Housebroken -Crate trained If you’re interested in adopting Scooby, all pets’ fees are waived tomorrow, October 3rd! Apply for him on our website… he’s waiting for someone amazing to come scoop him up 🤎 #adoptashelterpet #dogsofinstagram #cutedogs #dogreels #adoptdontshop
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10/1 - 4 month old Leo was skin and bones when he first came to PAWS… today, he is a healthy, confident little man filled with personality and LOVE! Plus… it’s National Black Dog Day! Adopt Leonardo 😍🖤 www.pawsshelter.org *Dripping Springs, TX* #puppy #adoptashelterpet #puppiesofinstagram #cutedogs #puppylove
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9/30 - Adopt 6 year old Dexter! 😍 Dexter is a silly, sweet, simple boy who is just looking for the good things in life: lovings, playtime, and a person to call his own! He’s easygoing, gentle, and loves interacting with people. Whether he’s getting some attention from his favorite humans or enjoying a little playtime, Dexter is happiest when he’s included. He’s also a pretty easy guy to live with! Dexter is crate trained and walks nicely on a leash, making him a great companion for adventures big and small. Dexter is a friendly guy with a big heart, but he’s also pretty clear about his preferences when it comes to canine friends. He doesn’t seem interested in hanging out with other dogs, so he’d be happiest as your one-and-only pup. If you’re looking for a gentle, goofy companion who will happily soak up your attention, enjoy a walk with you, and keep life simple, Dexter might just be your perfect match. #adoptashelterpet #dogsofinstagram #cutedogs #adoptdontshop #whywerescue
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9/29 - Adopt sweet, sassy, lovable Ginger! *Dripping Springs, TX* We’re not quite sure how she’d do with dogs outside of the shelter environment, so if you’re interested in her and already have one, you can apply to adopt her on our website and we can schedule a meet and greet. Meet 6 year old Ginger - the perfect mix of outgoing charm and calm companionship. 🧡 Ginger has a friendly, social personality and enjoys being part of the action, but she carries herself with a lovely calmness that makes her such an easy dog to be around. She’s happy to say hello, join you for an adventure, or simply relax by your side. She’s a wonderful leash walker and makes strolls enjoyable and stress-free. Ginger also keeps her area very clean and appears to be potty trained - a tidy girl with great house manners! And when the day winds down, Ginger truly shines as a super cuddler. She loves to snuggle up close and soak in all the affection she can get, happily returning it with warmth and sweetness. Outgoing, well-mannered, and incredibly cuddly … Ginger is ready to be someone’s loving, loyal best friend. #adoptashelterpet #dogsofinstagram #cutedogs #dogreels #funnydogs
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9/17 - Adopt dog-friendly, silly and sweet Diego Jr! 🥰 2 year old Diego Jr. is a sweet, curious boy with a playful spark and a heart full of love. He enjoys fetch, toys, and nice walks where he can explore the world at his own pace. Diego has experience living with other dogs and has good interactions with his canine friends. He’s crate trained, and would love a home where he can be part of the daily routine. He may be a little shy at first and can be nervous with loud noises or being left alone, but with patience and reassurance, his affectionate and active personality really shines. Diego Jr. has a condition called Masticatory Myositis (Eosinophilic Myositis), which is a condition that affects the muscles used for chewing. In simple terms, his body mistakenly targeted those jaw muscles, causing some muscle loss, which is why his head looks a little more sunken in than other dogs. The good news is that he’s being monitored and is on a treatment plan and doing well with medication and routine follow-up care! It’s not contagious and doesn’t affect his loving personality. Diego just needs some extra consistency with his medical care and safe chew enrichment to help keep those jaw muscles active. What he truly needs most is a committed home ready to give him the love and comfort he deserves! 🤍🤎 #adoptashelterpet #dogsofinstagram #cutedogs #dogreels
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9/16 - Adopt 4 year old Bindi 😍 -crate trained -housebroken -good with *some* dogs -lover girl Meet Bindi, a sweet, goofy girl with a heart overflowing with love. She truly never meets a stranger- everyone is a friend in Bindi’s eyes! Her happy spirit is contagious, and it’s hard not to smile when she’s around. Bindi loves making her people proud. She already knows how to sit and will happily show off whenever she gets the chance, always hoping to earn a smile, a treat, or a little extra praise. With her eager-to-please personality and playful nature, she’s a joy to have by your side. Whether you’re setting off on a weekend hike, taking a stroll through the neighborhood, or spending a quiet afternoon at home, Bindi is happiest simply being with the people she loves. She’s just as excited for an adventure as she is to curl up beside you afterward for cozy cuddles and a well-earned nap. Bindi has so much love to give and is ready to share it with a family of her own. If you’re looking for a loyal companion who will greet you with a wagging tail, make you laugh every day, and remind you how special unconditional love can be, Bindi is waiting to meet you. Bring home Bindi, and you’ll gain a best friend who will be by your side through every adventure, every cuddle, and every moment in between. #dogsofinstagram #adoptashelterpet #cutedogs #dogreels
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9/16 - Ginger is ready for a Harry Potter marathon with you… someone come adopt this sweet girl! 🧡 Meet 6 year old Ginger - the perfect mix of outgoing charm and calm companionship. Ginger has a friendly, social personality and enjoys being part of the action, but she carries herself with a lovely calmness that makes her such an easy dog to be around. She’s happy to say hello, join you for an adventure, or simply relax by your side. She’s a wonderful leash walker and makes strolls enjoyable and stress-free. Ginger also keeps her area very clean and appears to be potty trained - a tidy girl with great house manners! And when the day winds down, Ginger truly shines as a super cuddler. She loves to snuggle up close and soak in all the affection she can get, happily returning it with warmth and sweetness. Outgoing, well-mannered, and incredibly cuddly … Ginger is ready to be someone’s loving, loyal best friend. #dogsofinstagram #adoptashelterpet #adoptadog #cutedogs #dogreels
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9/15 - Maddy just turned 8 last week… and she spent another birthday without a forever family 💔 Even though our staff has all fallen in love with her, she’s had little to no interest. Maddy is a sweet and FUN girl with so so much to offer, but she’s been feeling low lately. We hope someone gives her a chance to thrive in a home soon. Maddy is great on a leash, potty trained and loves to lounge. She needs to be your only pet, but she’s more than enough 🥹🤎🖤🤍 #adoptashelterpet #dogsofinstagram #cutedogs #dogreels #whywerescue
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