The Heart Behind Hometown Paws

When the family behind Hometown Collision took over the Salem staple in 2024, they brought something special along with their automotive expertise – a deep love for rescue animals that would spark a unique community initiative.

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It all started with Whitney, whose passion for animal rescue has shaped her family's story. Together with her husband Walter, they've created a loving home for five rescue dogs alongside their children. Their oldest daughter, Bella, has already embraced the family's rescue mission, having saved two dogs of her own.

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The family's rescue journey took a heartwarming turn when Whitney's father Terry, who raised Whitney as an only child, returned from living overseas for 20 years,  welcomed his rescue dog, Juno, into his life. This special dog quickly became what Terry affectionately calls his "second child," proving it's never too late to discover the joy of pet adoption.

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The entire Hometown Collision team is united with their love and devotion for animals and have numerous rescue pets of their own. When you visit for a vehicle service, It's not unusual to be greeted by one of our four-legged friends hanging around with a wagging tail! They're just as happy to see you as we are! 

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This shared love for rescue animals inspired the creation of Hometown Paws – a partnership between Hometown Collision and Salem Animal Control. The initiative combines the shop's 50-year legacy of fixing cars with a new mission: helping local pets find their forever homes.