Success Stories

Heather, our founder, has been rescuing dogs for over 20 years, driven by an unwavering passion for animal welfare. Five years ago, while volunteering at a shelter in Texas, she encountered a small dog huddled in the corner of his cage, trembling and crying. He was suffering from multiple skin, eye, ear and respiratory infections. He had heart worms and difficulty walking and looked defeated. His name was Keller. When Heather asked about him, the shelter staff explained that he was set to be euthanized soon, as his chances of adoption were slim. Refusing to accept this fate, Heather made the decision to adopt him on the spot.

She drove all the way back to Maine with Keller, who seemed to be in his twilight years, burdened by numerous health issues. Despite his condition, Heather and her team gave him the care he desperately needed. After medical treatment, he began to heal. Keller didn’t respond to his name. Heather had 3 days driving and went through the alphabet trying to find a name that suited him. It wasn't until they arrived in Maine he chose the name Brady.

Brady was given a fresh start for a dog whose spirit had been beaten down but not broken. Within a week, Brady began to show his true personality, playing with toys and bonding with the other dogs. It didn’t take long for everyone to fall in love with him. Grateful and full of life, Brady thrived in their care and lived happily for five years, bringing endless joy to those around him. He became the heart and soul behind the creation of our rescue.

Brady’s story is one of resilience, love, and second chances—but more than that, it’s a story of how he saved us just as much as we saved him. We miss you, Brady. You will forever be in our hearts.

Inspired by Brady’s, we founded Golden Years Haven shortly before his passing in December 2024. Sadley, we lost Brady in January 2025.

Our first official rescue was Lady Bug, a sweet little dog with an irresistibly quirky smile. She was surrendered to us by a kind-hearted woman who, facing personal challenges, couldn’t care for her anymore. Rather than leave Lady Bug at a shelter before moving to Florida, she entrusted her to our care. Like Brady, Lady Bug came to us with a double ear infection, but after treatment and loving attention, she’s now thriving. Over the past six months, her energy has blossomed, and she’s developed a playful connection with the other dogs here.

Since Lady Bug, we’ve welcomed three more dogs into our care, each with their own story to tell. We’ll be sharing more about their journeys as they unfold, and we’re honored to be a part of their second chance at life.