October Advocates Newsletter

the Wild Heart Dispatch the Wild Heart Dispatch

News,journeysandthewildpathswe’reforging. News,journeysandthewildpathswe’reforging.

Oct ‘25

Founder’s Message

let your wild heart roam let your wild heart roam

From the bottom of my heart, thank you You’ve chosen to walk beside us in these early steps, and it means the world

From the bottom of my heart, thank you. You’ve chosen to walk beside us in these early steps, and it means the world.

You are our Founding Advocates, the ones who believed in Wild Heart Haven before the fences are built, before the trails are laid, before the first pawprints touch the sanctuary grounds

You are our Founding Advocates, the ones who believed in Wild Heart Haven before the fences are built, before the trails are laid, before the first pawprints touch the sanctuary grounds.

This is the first edition of our monthly newsletter, a new way for us to share stories, celebrate milestones, and keep you close as the Haven grows Each month, you’ll hear from us about the rescues we make, the community we’re building, and the vision we’re bringing to life together

As the founding father of Wild Heart Haven and the Wild Heart Foundation, I tell you this: this sanctuary is more than just a dream, it’s mission. Every step forward is fueled by the compassion and support of people like you.

As the founding father of Wild Heart Haven and the Wild Heart Foundation, I can tell you this: this sanctuary is more than just a dream, it’s a mission Every step forward is fueled by the compassion and support of people like you

Nonprofit Filing Status

Together, we’re proving that love, courage, and hearts can change the world.

Together, we’re proving that love, courage, and wild hearts can change the world

With gratitude,

Kevin Cooke / Founding Father, Wild Heart Haven

WildBites WildBites

Small Bites of Big News Small Bites of Big News

The TradingPost Opens

On September 9th, we officially filed for 501(c)(3) nonprofit recognition. This means every donation made since that date will qualify as tax-deductible once our status is confirmed

On September 9th, we officially filed for 501(c)(3) nonprofit recognition This means every donation made since that date will qualify as tax-deductible once our status is confirmed

Growing Strong

The trail is open! From Oct 5th through Nov 23rd, you can grab your gear at our Trading Post Every item funds the mission and us save more lives

The trail is open! From Oct 5th through Nov 23rd, you can grab your gear at our Trading Post Every item funds the mission and helps us save more lives.

Wild Heart Haven’s mission keeps gaining momentum, thanks to the overwhelming support of our incredible Advisory Board Their guidance is helping us shape a sanctuary built to last, and we’re just getting started We’re equally excited for the advisors we’ll meet along the way, each bringing new wisdom and heart to this journey Advisory Team

Wild Heart Haven’s mission keeps gaining momentum, thanks to the overwhelming support of our incredible Advisory Board. Their guidance is helping us shape a sanctuary built to last, and we’re just getting started. We’re equally excited for the advisors we’ll meet along the way, each bringing new wisdom and heart to this journey.

Wild Hearts Across Borders

Heads up: The product descriptions are written from a dog’s perspective, so if things sound a little extra wa th t’ b d i !

Heads up: The product descriptions are written from a dog’s perspective, so if things sound a little extra wa h ’ b d i !

Our family of Advocates is growing, and taking us national! While our fight began here in Florida, our mission is already reaching beyond state lines. With support from Advocates in Texas, Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio, it’s clear: this vision is bigger than one place. This is a strength-in-numbers movement, the more voices we have, the louder we can speak for the voiceless. Invite your friends to join us the fight. Together, we’ll build a sanctuary movement without borders.

Our family of Advocates is growing, and taking us national! While our fight began here in Florida, our mission is already reaching beyond state lines With support from Advocates in Texas, Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio, it’s clear: this vision is bigger than one place This is a strength-in-numbers movement, the more voices we have, the louder we can speak for the voiceless Invite your friends to join us in the fight Together, we’ll build a sanctuary movement without borders

Wild Heart of the Month Wild Heart of the Month

Every month, the Dispatch will shine a light on one of our four-legged friends from the Wild Heart community. We’ll share their story, a few favorite photos, and what makes them so special to the people who love them. For our very first feature, we’ve chosen a dog close to the Haven’s heart. But going forward, we want you to be part of it. Advocates can submit their dog’s story and photos to wildhearthavenrescue@gmail.com (please use the subject line Wild Heart of the Month). Each month, we’ll pull one lucky entry from the pack to take the spotlight. It’s our way of celebrating the bond we all share, and reminding ourselves why we do this work: for the dogs who make our lives wilder, warmer, and full of heart.

Waffles Waffles

Meet - a 4-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog with a story as big as his heart.

When Waffles was first rescued, he weighed only 60 pounds, nearly half of what a healthy Bernese should be. He had been used as a breeder stud, abused, and starved, leaving him scared of people and resistant to touch.

When Waffles was first rescued, he weighed only 60 pounds, nearly half of what a Bernese should be. He had been used as a breeder stud, abused, and starved, leaving him scared of people and resistant to touch.

With patience, love, and time, Waffles began to trust again. Today, he’s thriving at 100 pounds of pure cuddle bear.

What makes him special:

With patience, love, and time, Waffles began to trust again. Today, he’s thriving at 100 pounds of pure cuddle bear.

He’s a professional snuggler, if you sit down, prepare for 100 pounds of love right in your lap.

His “morning dance” (complete with booty shakes) makes waking up a joy.

He’s picky about playmates, no dogs, thank you, but absolutely loves playing tag with people.

Why the name Waffles:

Food is his love language. After enduring starvation, he now delights in everything from blueberries and bacon to peanut butter and cantaloupe. His all-time favorite indulgence? Whipped cream.

Favorite Toy:

Stuffed animals. He loves to run, grab them, and curl up with them like they’re lifelong friends. Stuffed animals. He loves to grab them, and curl up with them like they’re lifelong friends.

From a frightened, neglected dog to a joyful, food-loving goofball, Waffles embodies the spirit of resilience. He reminds us every day why Wild Heart Haven exists: to rescue, heal, and give dogs the forever love they deserve.

Breed of the Month: Breed of the Month: History&

The Newfoundland The Newfoundland

official breed recognition: 1886

Fun Facts: Fun Facts:

Backstory History& Backstory

Known as the gentle giant of the dog world, the Newfoundland hails from the rugged coasts of Canada Originally bred to work alongside fishermen, these powerful dogs pulled nets from the sea, hauled carts of wood, and were fearless rescuers in icy waters Their strength and loyalty made them indispensable partners, not just pets, but lifelines

Traits&

Temperament Traits& Temperament

Known as the gentle giant of the dog world, the Newfoundland hails from the rugged coasts of Canada Originally bred to work alongside fishermen, these powerful dogs pulled nets from the sea, hauled carts of wood, and were fearless rescuers in icy waters Their strength and loyalty made them indispensable partners, not just pets, but lifelines.

Gentle, patient, and famously good with children, earning them the nickname “nanny dogs ”

Massive in size, but mellow in nature

Excellent swimmers, equipped with webbed feet and a water-resistant double coat

Excellent equipped with webbed feet and a water-resistant double coat.

Protective yet kind, they’re natural guardians of both land and sea

Protective yet kind, they’re natural guardians of both land and sea.

Newfoundlands can weigh up to 150 pounds, yet are known for their calm, sweet demeanor.

They’re one of the few dog breeds with partially webbed feet built for swimming.

They’re one of the few dog breeds with partially webbed feet — built for swimming.

Their thick coats once protected them in freezing Atlantic waters.

Their thick coats once protected them in freezing Atlantic

Many famous writers and explorers owned Newfoundlands, including Lewis & Clark on their expedition.

Even when I get to 150lbs, I’ll still be your “Gentle Giant”

Even when I get to 150lbs, I’ll still be your “Gentle Giant” pg

Breed of the Month: Breed of the Month:

My thick, water-resistant coat, massive strength, and webbed feet make me an exceptional swimmer Historically, I was bred to rescue fishermen in icy waters.

A Newfoundland once saved Napoleon Bonaparte from drowning when he fell overboard during a ship transfer

The breed has been credited with countless water rescues throughout history it’s in their nature to leap into danger if a life is at risk

The breed has been credited with countless water throughout history it’s in their nature to leap into danger if a life is at risk.

The largest Newfoundland on record weighed 260 pounds, bigger than most people!

The largest Newfoundland on weighed 260 pounds, bigger than most people! Whywelove‘em Whywelove‘em

The Newfoundland embodies everything Wild Heart Haven stands for courage, gentleness, resilience, and the instinct to protect. They remind us that true strength isn’t about power alone it’s about compassion.

The Newfoundland embodies everything Wild Haven stands for courage, gentleness, resilience, and the instinct to protect They remind us that true strength isn’t about power alone it’s about compassion

Puppy Weight:

At birth: usually 1–1.5 pounds.

By 8 weeks: often 15–25 pounds already.

By 8 weeks: often 15–25 pounds already. They grow fast most Newfie puppies put on 2–3 pounds per week during the fir

They grow fast — most Newfie puppies put on 2–3 pounds per week during the fir

If you or someone you know has o these gentle giants in your life, love to hear about it

Send us yo stories and favorite photos of y Newfoundland, and you may see featured in an upcoming issue of newsletter!

Send us yo stories and favorite photos of y Newfoundland, and you may see featured in an upcoming newsletter!

www wildhearthavenrescue@gma www wildhearthavenrescue@gma

Avg.Lifespan:8-10yrs Avg.Lifespan:8-10yrs

typical for giant breeds, though ome live longer with excellent care typical for giant breeds, though ome live longer with excellent care

walking trails and meeting the dogs, your stay is entirely your own. And the best part? Every rental helps fund our mission, so while you recharge, you’re also giving back.

Every corner of Wild Heart Haven is meant to restore the soul tranquil in its quiet, adventurous in its heart, and wide open with possibility.

Every corner of Wild Heart Haven is meant to restore the soul — tranquil in its quiet, adventurous in its heart, and wide open with possibility.

THIS is the long-term vision for Wild Heart Haven: a sanctuary where animals, people, and the land all heal together. And right now, you’re helping us lay the very first stones of that future.

THIS is the long-term vision for Wild Heart Haven: a sanctuary where animals, people, and the land all heal together. And right now, you’re helping us lay the very first stones of that future. let your wild heart roam

Tips & Resources Tips & Resources

nuggets of wisdom from the Haven for you and your four-legged friends. nuggets of wisdom from the Haven for you and your four-legged friends.

Seasonal Safety Seasonal Safety

Training Tip Training Tip

Keep walks stress-free by teaching your dog the “wait” command at doorways It prevents pulling and gives you control before stepping outside

Keep walks stress-free by teaching your dog the “wait” command at doorways. It prevents pulling and gives you control before stepping outside

With fall here, keep an eye on mushrooms in your yard or trails, many are toxic to dogs When in doubt, leash up in wooded areas

With fall here, keep an eye on mushrooms in your yard or trails, many are toxic to dogs. When in doubt, leash up in wooded areas

Hydration isn’t just for summer! Dogs need water breaks year-round. A collapsible water bowl in your car or bag makes it easy on day trips

Hydration isn’t just for summer! Dogs need water breaks year-round A collapsible water bowl in your car or bag makes it easy on day trips.

Tips & Resources Tips & Resources

Wellness Reminder Wellness Reminder

Enrichments & Play Enrichments & Play

Scent Work: Hide treats around a room and let your dog sniff them out mental work is just as tiring and important as physical exercise

Scent Work: Hide treats around a room and let your dog sniff them out. mental work is just as tiring and important as physical exercise.

Seasonal Grooming: As coats change for cooler weather, regular brushing prevents mats and keeps shedding under control

Seasonal Grooming: As coats change for cooler weather, regular brushing prevents mats and keeps shedding under control.

Seasonal Safety Seasonal Safety

Chocolate, xylitol, grapes and raisins are all toxic. keep treats out of reach.

Chocolate, xylitol, grapes and raisins are all toxic keep treats out of reach

Resources to Explore Resources to Explore

Book: ‘The Forever Dog’ by Dr Karen Becker & Rodney Habib (longevity + health tips)

Community Spotlight: April Community Spotlight: April

Every movement has its quiet heroes. the ones who were advocating long before the world caught on. For Wild Heart Haven, one of those heroes is April.

Even before our sanctuary had a name, April was known for reaching out, sending information on dogs in need of fostering or adoption, and doing whatever she could to make sure they weren’t forgotten. She is a strong voice for fairness and equal treatment of targeted breeds, especially pit bulls, and she never hesitates to speak out when she sees injustice.

April’s dedication has already helped shape our path. It was through her that we first learned about Everest, the dog who inspired the creation of our Everest Program, Wild Heart Haven’s fostering initiative. Her passion for advocacy has left a lasting mark on our mission.

April’s heart doesn’t stop there. She is now one of our Founding Advocates, walking with us as we grow this dream. Her dog, Waffles, was chosen as the inaugural Wild Heart of the Month, making the story come full circle.

April is proof that one person’s courage can ripple outward, changing lives, inspiring programs, and fueling a movement that is bigger than us all

April is proof that one person’s courage can ripple outward, changing lives, inspiring programs, and fueling a movement that is bigger than us all.

From Wild Heart HAven, The Wild Heart Foundation, and the THOUSANDS of dogs who’s life you will affect, we say...

THANK YOU

THANK YOU APRIL!!

Mission Mission

11:59 11:59

The Paws Before Midnight Campaign

At 11:59, time is almost gone That’s where too many dogs find themselves, on the edge of being lost forever to a cruel system Mission 11:59 is our promise to act before the clock strikes midnight We refuse to let silence, neglect, or lack of resources decide their fate

At 11:59, time is almost gone. That’s where too many dogs find themselves, on the edge of being lost forever to a cruel system. Mission 11:59 is our promise to act before the clock strikes midnight We refuse let silence, neglect, or lack of resources decide their fate

THE LOGO AS OUR BADGE THE LOGO AS OUR BADGE

The Paws Before Midnight logo isn’t decoration, it’s a declaration. This mark is our badge, carried by those who step into the fight against the “ kill list” Wearing it means you’ve chosen to act: maybe through volunteering, funding rescues, or simply adding your name to the growing list of voices that say, “enough is enough ”

The Paws Before Midnight logo isn’t decoration, it’s a declaration This mark is our badge, carried by those who step into the fight against the “ kill list” Wearing it means you’ve chosen to act: maybe through volunteering, funding rescues, or simply adding your name to the growing list of voices that say, “enough is enough ”

It’s a symbol of belonging to something bigger, an army of Advocates and supporters determined to give voices to the voiceless and to make sure no dog’s time runs out at 11:59

We place the Paws Before Midnight logo on every piece of Midnight Outpost merchandise because it’s more than gear, it’s a visible sign of solidarity Every shirt, hoodie, or phone case carries the story of dogs who deserve more than a crumpled ending

We place the Paws Before Midnight logo on every piece of Midnight Outpost merchandise because it’s more than gear, it’s a visible sign of solidarity Every shirt, hoodie, or phone case carries the story of dogs who deserve more than a crumpled ending.

Every dollar raised through the Outpost goes directly back into the fight, buying time for the dogs we are actively following and struggling to save each day This is more than fundraising, it’s the formation of a community, working together with our best tools and giving our best effort to rescue, reform, and rehabilitate

Every dollar raised through the Outpost goes directly back into the fight, buying time for the dogs we are actively following and struggling to save each day This is more than fundraising, it’s the formation of a community, working together with our best tools and giving our best effort to rescue, reform, and rehabilitate.

At the same time, we are committed to pushing for change in euthanasia laws, because true rescue must go beyond saving individual lives, it must challenge the system that discards them And through it all, we promise transparency We will share both failures and success stories, because only by being open can we learn, collaborate, and find better, more humane ways to give last-minute dogs the care and treatment they deserve.

At the same time, we are committed to pushing for change in euthanasia laws, because true rescue must go beyond saving individual lives, it must challenge the system that discards them And through it all, we promise transparency We will share both failures and success stories, because only by being open can we learn, collaborate, and find better, more humane ways to give last-minute dogs the care and treatment they deserve THE CORE OF THE MISSION THE CORE OF THE MISSION

MORE THAN JUST A STORE MORE THAN JUST A STORE

This isn’t about shopping It’s about solidarity The Outpost is one way we mark ourselves as part of the fight, a visible symbol of a growing movement that says no dog should run out of time at 11:59

This isn’t about shopping. It’s about solidarity. The Outpost is one way we mark ourselves as part of the fight, a visible symbol of a growing movement that says no dog should run out of time at 11:59

the Wild Heart Dispatch the Wild Heart Dispatch

let your wild heart roam let your wild heart roam

AMessagetoCloseOurFirstDispatch AMessagetoCloseOurFirstDispatch

As we close this very first issue of the Wild Heart Haven Dispatch, I want to pause and simply say thank you

This is more than a newsletter. It’s the record of a movement in its earliest steps, a movement built not on fences or buildings just yet, but on people with wild hearts who believe every life matters

This is more than a newsletter It’s the record of a movement in its earliest steps, a movement built not on fences or buildings just yet, but on people with wild hearts who believe every life matters

What you’ve just read are not distant dreams They are the foundation we are laying together: a sanctuary that protects, a community that teaches, and a voice that speaks up when silence would be easier.

What you’ve just read are not distant dreams. They are the foundation we are laying together: a sanctuary that protects, a community that teaches, and a voice that up when silence would be easier

There will be challenges We’ll share our wins, but we’ll also share the hard parts, because transparency is the only way forward And through it all, you’ll be part of this story, helping us build something that outlives us all

There will be challenges. We’ll share our wins, but we’ll also share the hard parts, because transparency is the only way forward And through it all, you’ll be part of this story, helping us build something that outlives us all

From every dog still waiting, from every pawprint yet to cross our land, thank you for walking with us

From every dog still waiting, from every pawprint yet to cross our land, thank you for walking with us.

This is only the beginning

This is only the beginning.

With a wild heart,

With wild heart,

Kevin Cooke / Founding Father, Wild Heart Haven

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