​OUR MISSION

Happily Furever After Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, no-kill, foster-based organization dedicated to saving and transforming the lives of dogs and cats in need. Based in Bethel, Connecticut, and founded in 2020, we provide a safe haven for animals, many of which have been lost, abandoned, abused, or neglected, offering them a second chance. Partnering with local communities and shelters nationwide, we work tirelessly to rescue at-risk animals and prepare them for loving furever homes. At Happily Furever After Rescue, we’re committed to “making dreams come true, one paw at a time.”



ABOUT THE FOUNDER

Jaclyn Gartner (pictured) has always had a love for animals and a passion for helping those in need. Her life changed the day she rescued her dog, Tyler. After Tyler was in a shelter for nearly three years, she realized she had to do something to help other animals like him. He was the dog no one wanted - adopted and returned multiple times. Jaclyn was the one person who never gave up on him and he is the main inspiration behind why she started Happily Furever After Rescue. Prior to 2020, Jaclyn was volunteering at her local shelter for three years.

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Sadly Jaclyn lost Tyler to aggressive bone cancer in December 2021, at the early age of seven years old. While he's no longer on earth, Tyler still inspires Jaclyn each and every day and left a legacy on the world. You can learn more about Tyler's story here. Her kitty, Zoey, who sadly passed away in 2023, was another driving force behind the start of Happily Furever After Rescue.

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In addition to running the rescue herself, Jaclyn also helps to foster dogs and cats in need. A Long Island native, she currently lives in Bethel, CT with her two HFAR "foster fails," Mama, a senior pittie, and Bennett, a rambunctious wild child.