Big Heart Animal Continuity Program

Keeping Pets and People Connected Through Life's Hardest Transitions

Why This Matters

For more than two and have a years, Big Heart Animal Foundation has visited nursing homes, assisted living communities, rehabilitation centers, hospitals and hospice facilities throughout our community.

During those visits, we've celebrated birthdays, comforted families, and witnessed the incredible bond between people and their pets.

We've also seen something heartbreaking.

Time and time again, residents tell us they had to give up a beloved pet before entering care - not because they wanted to, but because they had no other option.

The Stories We Hear Most Often

My family already has pets

Even when family wants to help, existing pets, housing restrictions, allergies, or financial limitations often make it impossible.

My pet depends on me

Sometimes the person entering care has been the primary caregiver - not only for their pet, but also for a spouse or loved one facing health challenges.

Without support, seeking medical care means losing the animal they love.

I don't have family nearby

Many people simply don't have relatives who can temporarily or permanently care for their pet.

Our Vision

Big Heart Animal Sanctuary will provide compassionate care for pets during some of life's most difficult transitions while helping preserve the bond between people and the animals who love them

Temporary Pet Care
Short-term care while owners focus on healing

For individuals who need temporary medical care, including:

Surgery recovery
Physical rehabilitation
Drug and alcohol rehabilitation
Hospitalization
Medical Treatment

Instead of worrying about where their pet will go, families can focus on healing while knowing their companion is receiving loving care

When possible, owners will receive:

Photos
Videos
Updates
Visits from their pet when appropriate

Forever Pet Care

When an owner can no longer return home

When someone permanently enters:

Assisted living
Nursing care
Hospice
Or passes away

Big Heart will provide a safe, loving home until the animal can either:

Remain as a sanctuary resident
- or
Be carefully matched with an appropriate adoptive family.

Owners and families will continue receiving updates whenever possible because losing your home should never mean losing the connection with your pet.

Our Promise

We believe no one should delay medical treatment because they have nowhere safe for their pet.

We believe no one should be forced to surrender a beloved companion simply because life circumstances changed.

And we believe every pet deserves comfort, love, and dignity - just as every person does.

Our Long-Term Vision

Big Heart Animal Foundation hopes to one day build a peaceful sanctuary where pets can continue receiving love, enrichment, medical care, and companionship while families receive the reassurance that their beloved animals are safe.

Our vision includes:

Spacious fenced play yards for dogs to exercise and explore
Comfortable indoor living spaces designed to feel like home
Specialized care for senior pets and animals with medical needs
Partnerships with local veterinarians to ensure quality healthcare
Daily enrichment, socialization, and individualized attention
Volunteers who provide love, companionship, and daily care
Photo, video, and written updates to help families stay connected
When appropriate, opportunities for pets to visit their owners in rehabilitation centers, assisted living communities, nursing homes, or hospice facilities

Our vision has always been bigger than providing shelter. It's about preserving one of life's most important bonds - the bond between people and the animals who love them. Because no one should have to choose between getting the care they need and keeping the companion they love.