Jaclyn Gartner rescues and foster animals with an eye toward giving them what most people also seek: a home with caring, love and kindness.
“Helping animals who have been abandoned, neglected, or are at risk of euthanasia is important because every animal deserves a chance to experience love and be treated like family,” said Gartner, founder of Happily Furever After Rescue, a no-kill foster-based organization located in Bethel.
Established in 2020, the nonprofit rescues dogs and cats locally and from kill shelters across the country.
Over the years, it has successfully rescued hundreds of dogs and cats, she said, noting she likes “to help the ones that no one else will, especially the bully breeds and larger dogs as they’re harder to place.”
“We provided them with a second chance at life. My organization was founded out of a deep passion for animals and a desire to make a difference,” Gartner said. “We’re a 100 percent volunteer-run organization. Every one of us is here because we believe in the mission and the cause. For me, it’s my life, my purpose.”
The nonprofit serves Fairfield County and beyond. At any given time, the nonprofit has up to 20-25 animals depending on the number of fosterers they have volunteering, with an average of 175 yearly adoptions.
Across Connecticut abandonment of pets has risen, with experts saying they include families who can’t afford to keep their pets, including because of the cost of veterinary care.
Dog and cat food, littler, and pet-sitter costs also add to expenses for many already financially strapped pet owners.
“We’re seeing a significant slowdown in adoptions right now, and many perfectly adoptable animals are waiting far longer than they should. Some of these dogs and cats have been with us for months, and in some cases, even years,” said Gartner. “The need to help animals is greater than ever.
“Shelters across the country are overwhelmed, with many operating well beyond capacity, leading to an increased risk of euthanasia for adoptable pets,” she said. “Thankfully, we’re seeing animals from high-kill shelters being transported to safety, but the influx of rescues often outpaces the available foster homes and resources.”
Gartner believes no animal should ever be defined by their past.
“These animals often arrive broken, emotionally or physically, but with the right care and lots of love, they can heal, trust again, and become the loyal companions they were always meant to be,” said Gartner who has fostered 30 animals over the years and currently has a longtime foster dog she’s had for almost two years along with a 10-year-old senior cat she took in this November. “Every rescue is a reminder of the power of compassion, and the difference a person can make in the life of an animal.”
Gartner’s life mission began in 2017 after she adopted her soul dog, Tyler.
“Tyler was at Best Friends Animal Society in New York City for nearly three years. He was the dog no one wanted – adopted and returned multiple times – but I gave him the chance that no one else would and it changed my life,” Gartner said. “Tyler was the true definition of resilience and while our time together was not nearly enough (he passed in 2021 from cancer at age seven), he left a legacy on this world, and everything I do is for him. I knew I had to do something to help other animals like Tyler.”
Soon after, she became involved with her local animal shelter and was then inspired to start her own nonprofit.
“Making dreams come true, four paws at a time” is the organization’s mission.
“We’re dedicated to giving homeless animals the chance at a better life through adoption, fostering, or providing care and support. We work tirelessly to ensure each animal finds its way to a loving home, and we’re committed to making a real impact in the lives of both the animals and the families who welcome them in,” she said.
This year, Renee DePalo did a foster-to-adopt through the nonprofit with a dog named Hazel.
“Jaclyn was so helpful and such a support during the first days until now. She really cares about every dog that she takes into her care and has a sense of duty and responsibility far after their adoption,” said DePalo.
“I would adopt through this rescue again, and I highly recommend to anyone looking for the best possible experience,” DePalo said. “It can be a challenge to adopt a dog who has come into rescue. It can be a challenge to adopt any dog, even from a breeder. Jaclyn makes the experience less overwhelming with her continuous support and care.”
For Gartner, foster families are the heart of her work.
“They’re crucial to our success, providing the love, care, and attention that many of these animals need to heal and thrive. Their commitment and support allow us to rescue more animals than I could ever do alone,” she said. Being a small rescue and considering herself a one-woman show, Gartner relies on a dedicated team of volunteers. “I handle everything – it’s a lot to juggle, but every task is worth it when I see the positive impact on the animals we save,” she said.
Securing consistent funding is also ongoing. The nonprofit relies on fundraisers, events, and community outreach. “We’re always looking for new ways to engage supporters who are passionate about helping animals in need. Without the generosity of our donors, our work wouldn’t be possible.”
The nonprofit will celebrate five years in March. “We’re proud of everything we’ve accomplished, but we recognize our work is far from finished. In five years, we’ve rescued nearly 750 cats and dogs. We’ve built a strong, compassionate community of volunteers, donors, and adopters, who are critical to our mission. That said, the need for fostering is still immense,” she said. “The lives we save are a reminder that every rescue matters, and that compassion, teamwork, and community can make a world of difference for animals in need.”
To raise awareness throughout the year, Gartner hosts community events to promote pet adoption and encourage fostering, including her annual event, Bark in the Park: In Memory of Tyler to honor Tyler’s birthday. “It’s become a beloved tradition that draws over a thousand people each year. It’s a celebration for the whole family – including furry members – and it’s rewarding to see everyone come together to support animal rescue. The outpouring of love from the community makes all the hard work worth it,” she said.
This holiday season, Gartner encourages people to consider opening their heart to a homeless pet.
“The gift of adoption or fostering is one of the most rewarding experiences you can give, not just to the animal, but to yourself, as well. The unconditional love and joy a pet brings into your life is immeasurable, and there’s no better time than now to make a difference in the life of a deserving animal,” said Gartner. “Whether you’re able to adopt or foster, your act of kindness can change a life furever.”
