Anastasia McAnear and HART are helping to rescue animals in Burleson County

CALDWELL, Texas (KBTX) – When you adopt, you’re not just giving a deserving pet a home. You’re also helping to make room for other animals in need. That’s the reminder from Haven Animal Rescue of Texas, known as HART. This week’s Be Remarkable Award goes to one of the dedicated volunteers who keeps it all going.

In the heart of Burleson County, HART operates as a nonprofit organization established in 2021 with a mission to rescue abandoned and homeless animals, prevent cruelty, and offer spaying and neutering assistance. They’re more than just a rescue—they’re educators, advocates, and a lifeline for pet owners facing hard times.

Anastasia McAnear, a volunteer and board member for two years, knows the hustle of animal rescue better than most. “It’s crazy! Cats, dogs—you name it, we get phone calls and messages nonstop. I couldn’t do it without such a great group,” she said with a smile.

Tracy Kellar, who nominated Anastasia for the award, expressed just how invaluable she is. “She does so much. She’s a mom, she works, and she still makes time for all these animals, especially the cats. She’s taken on the role of our cat trapper,” Kellar explained.

HART, while large and impactful, faces challenges. With no physical shelter, they rely entirely on foster homes to care for the animals they rescue. Yet, they have big plans—a dedicated facility that would allow them to save even more animals. But to make that dream a reality, they need more funding and more hands-on help. “We really need more volunteers,” said Kellar. “There’s five of us, and we’re caring for over 170 dogs. We’re always on call.”

Despite these challenges, HART’s mission remains focused: helping families find their perfect furry family members. That’s why KBTX and Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers were proud to present Anastasia and the entire HART team with this week’s Be Remarkable Award.

“That’s exactly what our Be Remarkable Award is about—recognizing remarkable people in the community,” said Claudia Yanez with Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers as she presented the $500 award to Anastasia and the HART team.

Click here and here to learn more about adoptions, fostering, volunteering, and how you can help!

The “Be Remarkable” award is a joint initiative between KBTX-TV and Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers.

If you have someone you want to nominate for our Be Remarkable campaign click here!