Hank's Haven Rescue Foundation

About Us

Our Story

Hank’s Haven was founded by Nicole, whose experience in the rescue industry inspired her to create real change in dogs’ lives. Wanting to make a meaningful difference and take pride in her work, she decided to start her own rescue.

Nicole graduated from the Canine Foundations program at Georgian College and has recently become a licenced CPDT Trainer specializing in reactivity and behaviour challenges. She uses her rescue knowledge and experience as well as her training to help reactive dogs across the province. Her mission is to reduce owner surrenders and increase the number of adoptable dogs. She partners with shelters and humane societies throughout Ontario, demonstrating the incredible potential every dog has.

Alongside her team, Nicole is deeply dedicated to animal welfare and has devoted her life to making a difference. The Board of Directors—Nicole, Megan, and Janette—began as fosters for Hank’s Haven but quickly became an essential part of the family. Together, they’ve played a key role in rescuing and rehabilitating countless dogs. The rest of the team includes a passionate group of fosters and volunteers who share the same goal: to ensure every animal experiences love and care for the rest of their lives.

Hank’s Haven was named in memory of Hank, a Bull Terrier who was tragically euthanized through no fault of his own—simply because there was “no time, no space.” Nicole came to know Hank, his story, and his need for love and a forever home. Though his life was cut short, his legacy lives on through every dog Hank’s Haven rescues, protects, and rehabilitates. Hank’s name endures in each dog that now gets the second chance he never had.

Our Values

Our core values guide everything we do at Hank’s Haven, ensuring that every dog we rescue lives a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. These values include:

  • Thorough Assessments: Every animal is carefully evaluated upon intake to understand their needs and temperament.
  • Comprehensive Veterinary Care: All animals receive full medical evaluations and necessary treatments as soon as they arrive.
  • Responsible Adoptions: We conduct detailed adoption screenings, including home visits, to ensure each pet is placed with the right forever family.
  • Preventive Health Measures: All animals are up to date on vaccinations, flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, and are spayed or neutered before adoption.
  • Community Education: We educate the public on responsible pet ownership and provide the tools and resources needed to support it.
  • Animal Advocacy: We actively promote animal welfare and stand up for the well-being of all animals in our care and beyond.