At Tier Haven our hearts belong to the working dog breeds of Kentucky - German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois being our most common companions. The Tier Haven family is comprised of volunteers, adopters, and donors who have a passionate love for these working breeds and all of their quirks. We are brought together by the dogs that steal our hearts while chewing the shoe collection.
Tier Haven Rescue, Inc was originally incorporated in 1996 under the name ARK Project, Inc and is a long standing member of the animal rescue community in Kentucky. Originally an all-breed rescue Tier Haven shifted to focus on working dogs with the rise of breed specific legislation which was leading to larger numbers of German Shepherds, and other working dogs, being euthanized. We are rooted in Kentucky with a strong passion for enacting change within the state which has a long journey towards building our animal welfare laws. Even as breed specific legislation has dwindled there are still large numbers of working dogs finding themselves at risk of euthanasia due to a lack of breed knowledge and/or training. Tier Haven is committed to giving these dogs a second chance and we are all honored to be part of their paths to a better life.
Mission and Vision
Providing a safe stepping stone between shelters and adoptive homes for German Shepherds in Kentucky.
Specialization
Adoption Policy
We are a foster based organization therefore we require an approved adoption application prior to scheduling to meet, or adopt, any of our dogs. Email us at Tierhavenrescue@gmail.com for an adoption application.
https://Tierhaven.rescuegroups.org
Testimonials
See all testimonials"Tier Haven is near and dear to my heart. This rescue recognizes the human animal bond and is dedicated to bridging animals into a flourishing life. I have fostered many a dog that did not have a chance at leaving a shelter, and seen them through to being cherished, lifelong family members. I love being part of the dedication and commitment it takes to bring hope to these animals."
— elizabeth s.
Volunteer / foster, Staff member
"My husband and I adopted 3 German shepherds from Tier Haven over the last 5 years and we cannot say enough good things about the amazing work they do for stray/surrendered working dogs of Kentucky! Despite limited resources, Tier Haven is diligent in ensuring each dog is placed with a suitable family, getting to know their little personalities to make sure adopting families are a good fit."
— alina h.
Adoptee
"During the Pandemic, like many people, we decided to adopt a shelter dog. After browsing many different sites, we were drawn to Tier Haven's animals, it's commitment and it's purpose. When we finally got together for a Meet and Greet with the dog we'd chosen, we were informed that she had been adopted the day before. However, because my wife and I both had experience with wildlife from working at a zoo, and as wildlife officers, we were offered the chance to meet another dog that had been found as a feral and was very reactive to people. This dog, Selena (now just Lena), was frightened, but not defensive. She was gentle and got along well with our older Lab (which we had brought with us). We ended up bringing Lena home, and she has forever changed us. Earning her trust has required training, time and a few tears. Three trainers and two vets later, she is just about as "normal" as any GSD can be. However, we are MUCH better owners, trainers and people for what it's taken to bring her to this point. We can't thank Tier Haven enough for trusting us with Lena. She was The Dog for us. Tier Haven took a chance with us, and we'll be forever grateful for the sweet dog we have. When our old Lab passed, we got a Lab puppy that Lena helped raise. Angus just loves anyone, and he's earning his certificate as a therapy dog. He's irreplaceable, but we wouldn't have been able to bring him to the level he's at without the things we learned from Lena. The experience of earning Lena's trust, a skittish dog that feared humans (and men in particular) has been one of the most rewarding journeys of my life. Tier Haven truly changed our lives for the better."
— bob h.
Adoptee
"It was our first time adopting and they helped us feel comfortable and welcome. Our Gracie is doing great and we’ve decided it went so well we’d do it again."
— fariba m.
Adoptee
"They have helped us with two animals. Love how they make sure owners will be a match. The girls( my dogs) that they helped us have been the joy of my life . I know they always trying to help with awareness of saving breeds from shelters to make sure they get a good home. I know they work tirelessly and give from their own time and money if it’s not there."
— angel p.
Adoptee
"We adopted our current German Shepherd from Tier Haven. They were so great to work with at finding the right pup for our family. They are very thorough in their vetting process. We were able to meet several dogs to see how they would be with our family to make sure we had the right fit. We our so happy with him and wish we could adopt more! They work so hard to find great homes for these amazing dogs. I recommend them to anyone I know that is looking to get a German Shepherd."
— elizabeth k.
Adoptee
"Fantastic organization, great people who really care about the animals and where they are placed. Great follow up, and great care for the animals before they are placed. We adopted shatzie 10 years ago And in no time at all, she became an instrumental part of our family."
— mark m.
Adoptee
"Four years ago, I retired and my son said "you need a dog or you will go crazy." I applied to Tier Haven. They called my references and talked to me. I then met three German Shepherds. One of them came up to me, leaned against me and looked up at me with a crooked smile. There was no doubt, he had chosen me. They only required that I change his name, they hated his name-- Col. Mustard. And that is how I got Angus, my constant companions for the last four years. He is a wonderful, healthy, and happy friend. T"
— kevin d.
Adoptee, Supporter
"We had lost our dog of 13 years and it was too quiet in the house. We stumbled across Tier Haven and fell in love with the thinnest, stinkiest 2 year old German shepherd that had been rescued from an awful situation. We named her Hazel Nutt and couldn’t image life without her."
— jackie r.
Adoptee
"We adopted our Zeus (formerly known as Terrance) and this shelter did a fantastic job making sure he was caught up on all his shots and he was fixed. Zeus was already potty trained and already knew some commands! Highly recommend this shelter if you are a shepherd breed fan."
— danna p.
Adoptee
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David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development.
David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners.
Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature.
David is based in Salem, MA.
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