Our Mission
Heartland Cavalier Connection Inc is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming Cavalier King Charles Spaniels in need. Rooted in the heart of the Midwest, we strive to provide compassionate care, foster lifelong connections, and educate the community about responsible pet ownership. Together, we are building a network of hope and love for Cavaliers, one paw at a time.
Heartland Cavalier Connection Inc is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming Cavalier King Charles Spaniels in need. Rooted in the heart of the Midwest, we strive to provide compassionate care, foster lifelong connections, and educate the community about responsible pet ownership. Together, we are building a network of hope and love for Cavaliers, one paw at a time.
Our Mission
Heartland Cavalier Connection Inc is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming Cavalier King Charles Spaniels in need. Rooted in the heart of the Midwest, we strive to provide compassionate care, foster lifelong connections, and educate the community about responsible pet ownership. Together, we are building a network of hope and love for Cavaliers, one paw at a time.
The Logistics
Our budget is supported by adoption fees, fundraisers, donations, and grants. Partnering with local veterinary clinics ensures fast and effective health screenings as well as treatment of any health concerns. This practice ensures our adoptable dogs are vaccinated and ready to make a smooth transition into their forever homes. Foster parents and volunteer transporters are an integral part of our program, and ensure the success of every dog we place. We are so grateful for our volunteers!
Our Team
Heartland Cavalier Connection Inc was founded in 2024 by eleven passionate dog trainers, animal welfare professionals, owner enthusiasts, former breeder, and veterinarian who are dedicated to making this organization a powerful, positive resource in our community. We emphasize meeting all dogs' enrichment needs, and advocate for humane, fear-free training methods that strengthen the bond between human and canine. Commercial breeding operations are a part of our community, and as we support legislation to ban these facilities, our rescue provides safe homes for retired breeder dogs without encouraging unethical breeding practices. We also welcome rescue and shelter transfers as well as owner surrenders.
Meet Our Board
President
Trista Miller
CPDT-KA dog trainer, Fido's Forest owner, Rose's Bouquets owner & lead designer, 10 years experience in fostering, CKCS owner for 20 years.
Treasurer
Amber Toole
Human mom to a cavalier and cavalier mix, experience in creating and updating websites, event management and non-profit fundraising.
Marketing Officer
Delaney Atkinson
Community Outreach Educator at Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control with 7 years of experience in animal welfare and a passion for being a voice for the voiceless. Pet mom to three cats and two guinea pigs.
Board Member
Lori Herb
Loves working with dogs and is very active in dog sports. AKC Dog Instructor, Evaluator, and Judge.
Board Member
Alysia Olivas-Karn
Adores working with dogs, mom to three Cavaliers, Art Educator.
Board Member
Samantha Hunter
Proud pet mom to two dogs and a cat, with a love for animals and community involvement. Event producer and relationship builder who enjoys creating meaningful experiences that connect people.
We are SO thankful for our veterinarian partners
