Around the Rescue

Welcome to Rescue

In 2006, Crossing Paths President Mary Ellen Tidwell, along with several other community members who were likewise disturbed by the dog over-population and high shelter euthanasia rates, built two dog kennels on her property in rural Blount County, AL. While the other individuals eventually went their own ways, Mary Ellen stayed, driven by a deep and unwavering promise to the dogs who had nowhere else to turn. She made it her life’s mission to give the forgotten, the overlooked, and the discarded a chance to be seen, to be loved, and to finally belong. Piece by piece, kennel by kennel, Mary Ellen built not just a rescue, but a haven rooted in compassion.

Today, Crossing Paths Animal Rescue spans more than five acres and has the capacity to temporarily house up to 150 dogs at a time - and it continues to grow! Mary Ellen takes great pride in Crossing Paths, which has become known for its unique beauty. From thoughtfully-designed kennels to peaceful gardens and spacious play areas, our dogs enjoy their time here in a safe, enriching environment. Our dogs don’t just wait here, they begin to heal. They learn to trust again. They rediscover joy and what it means to be a dog.

From first light to quiet moments in between, this is what rescue looks like…compassion in action, commitment, and joy every single day.
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A New Day Begins

Each day begins with simple acts of care—meals prepared, routines followed, and every dog seen and nurtured.

Pick Me

Through these gates, Birch House comes to life—full of energy, personality, and dogs waiting patiently for their chance.

Zen

Every space is created with intention—bringing comfort, calm, and a sense of home to those who need it most.

Alicia's Place

Some places carry a little extra meaning. Alicia's place is in memory of a beloved former team member whose life was tragically and unexpectedly cut short. Her time with us may have ended far too soon, but her place in our family - and the love she gave to the dogs - lives on here.

Oates House

And in Oates House, the smallest journeys begin—where mothers and their babies find safety, rest, and the time to grow.

Gracie’s House

In Gracie’s House, new mothers find rest and a safe space to nurture their pups who grow stronger with each passing day.

Home at Last

Loaded with hope and headed north, each mile brings them closer to moments like this - where new beginnings are met with open arms and full hearts.

If you'd like to be part of this journey,
there's a place for you here.

From first light to forever homes, this is what rescue looks like--compassion, commitment, and love in motion every single day.

If you’d like to be part of this journey, there’s a place for you here.