Pam has always had a passion for helping those in need. She is committed to rescue and volunteers full-time, hoping to help make a difference in the lives of abandoned dogs. Pam oversees the day-to-day rescue operations, including intakes, transport, foster coordination and coaching, managing medical records, finances, and marketing. One of her first personal experiences in rescue was seeing a beautiful, owner-surrendered Malinois mix, Neena, on the euthanasia list in a Texas kill shelter. Pam tagged Neena and, as luck would have it, was introduced to Dori Naivar with WorkDog. Dori recognized Neena’s value and worked with her in her board and train program. Dori’s knowledge and passion for dogs truly changes lives! Neena is the perfect example of the difference each of us can make when we believe that all dogs deserve a second chance.
As a 5th generation Austinite, Pam is surrounded by her family and loves spending time with them and her four rescue dogs. Her family is not only supportive of Pam’s passion for rescuing dogs, but her husband is a pilot and has transported many dogs by air for rescue partners, including WorkDog.
Dori’s lifelong passion for dogs began at an early age when she became known in her neighborhood for training and caring for all the local dogs. At just 7 years old, her love for animals took a defining turn when she rescued her first dog, Tipper— a moment that would shape her future. Surprising her mother on her birthday, Dori saved a Chihuahua from a local home breeder, sparking a lifelong commitment to rescuing and advocating for dogs in need.
As a young adult, Dori’s dedication to canine care deepened, particularly when she began showing Labrador Retrievers. Her growing interest led her to pursue field training, catching the attention of the Round Rock Police Department. Certified as an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), Dori specialized in rehabilitating difficult dogs, making them more adoptable. Though not initially a K9 trainer, Dori was invited to train working dogs, including the Malinois breed, for the department’s K9 unit. This opportunity marked the start of a career combining law enforcement and canine behavior.
Dori later pursued a degree in criminal justice and earned a position as a patrol officer in the police academy. Her dedication and expertise led her to the coveted K9 unit, where she later joined the SWAT team, serving Austin and Central Texas.
In addition to her law enforcement work, Dori founded WorkDog in Lockhart, Texas, where she rehabilitated dogs and partnered with local rescues, including Paws of Central Texas, Animal Trustees of Austin, Addicus, MAD, the Prison Program, and many other community organizations.
Dori’s passion for expanding the foster care community motivates her to train first-time foster
caregivers. She believes fostering saves lives—both for the dog and the foster.
Dori believes in the power of collaboration, working closely with other rescues and community partners to save every dog. She understands that dog overpopulation is a collective challenge and no one can do it alone. Her rescue is rooted in the idea that all hands must be on deck to tackle these challenges. Dori also believes that every dog has a purpose—whether as a working dog, service dog, lap dog, or police dog. Through her hands-on approach, she ensures each dog receives the care, training, and love they need for a second chance at a happy, fulfilling life.
