Our Story

About Us

21 years of finding loving homes for animals who need them most.

A volunteer sharing a tender moment with a rescue dog

Est. 2005

Raleigh, NC

Heaven & Earth Animal Rescue Team

HEART — Heaven & Earth Animal Rescue Team — was founded in 2005 with a simple but powerful mission: to find loving, permanent homes for displaced dogs and cats in the Triangle area of North Carolina.

We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is entirely volunteer-run. Every person who works with HEART gives their time freely because they believe every animal deserves a safe, loving home. There are no paid staff — just dedicated people who care deeply about animals.

Unlike shelters, HEART operates through a network of foster homes. Every pet in our care lives with a foster family who provides love, stability, and individualized attention while they wait for their forever family. This means we know each animal's personality, quirks, and needs — and we can make the best possible match for both pet and adopter.

Over the past 21 years, we have helped hundreds of animals find the loving homes they deserve. We are committed to reducing the number of homeless animals through responsible adoption, education, and spay/neuter advocacy.

What We Stand For

Foster-Based Care

Every pet lives in a real home, not a cage. Our foster network gives animals the love and stability they need to thrive.

Responsible Adoption

We take time to match each pet with the right family — ensuring a lasting bond and a happy life for both.

100% Volunteer-Run

Every person at HEART is a volunteer. Your donations go directly to animal care, not overhead.

Spay & Neuter Advocacy

We promote responsible pet ownership and support spay/neuter programs to reduce the number of homeless animals.

Community Rooted

We've been part of the Triangle community since 2005. We know our neighbors and we care about our community.

Transparent & Trusted

As a registered 501(c)(3), we are accountable to our donors and community. Every dollar is used to help animals.

HEART volunteers caring for rescue dogs at an outdoor event

Join Our Mission

Whether you adopt, foster, volunteer, or donate — you become part of the HEART family.