Our Mission, Story, and Team
Discover the journey of Proud Rescuers of PR, from our humble beginnings to our tireless efforts in rescuing and caring for Puerto Rico’s strays. Meet the dedicated volunteers whose compassion and hard work make our mission possible. Join us in making a lasting difference for these vulnerable animals.
Our Journey: From Passionate Individuals to a Unified Mission
In January 2018, Proud Rescuers of PR was born out of a shared love for animals and a vision for a better world for them. Our story began with individuals tirelessly rescuing and caring for the neglected animal population on the struggling island of Puerto Rico. Each of us worked alone, often feeling overwhelmed and isolated by the magnitude of the task. But then we realized there were others like us, united by the same passion and determination. By coming together, we knew we could make a tremendous impact.
Puerto Rico is a place of stunning natural beauty, with lush rainforests and soft white sand beaches. However, behind this beauty lies a harsh reality: over 600,000 dogs and puppies, and 1 million cats and kittens, are abandoned, abused, and suffering. From newborns to seniors, many of these animals are injured, blind, malnourished, and show appalling signs of abuse. They are left to fend for themselves in brutal conditions, often dumped in places with names like Dead Dog Beach.
Proud Rescuers of PR, in collaboration with Furiend Flight has taken on the mission to save as many of these animals as possible. Our efforts include rescuing animals from the streets, providing necessary medical care, and finding them loving homes. We also aim to create a sanctuary for these animals and initiate a TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) program to decrease the continuously growing population of strays. Our volunteers are the heart of our organization, working tirelessly to make a difference.
We’ve marched in Old Town San Juan to raise awareness and speak out for the immediate need to spay and neuter these suffering animals. And we’re just getting started. It’s time for us all to stand up, take action, and make a difference in the lives of these animals. Everyone has a role to play, and everyone can help. Join forces with Proud Rescuers of PR and sign up to volunteer.
Our Team
Meet Our Dedicated Team
At Proud Rescuers of PR, our mission to save and improve the lives of Puerto Rico’s stray animals is driven by a passionate and dedicated team of volunteers. Each member brings unique skills and unwavering commitment to our cause. From rescuing and fostering to organizing events and creating awareness, our volunteers are the heart and soul of our organization. Get to know the incredible individuals who make our mission possible and learn how their dedication helps us create a brighter future for countless animals in need.
Andrea Herrick
Founder
On September 21, 2011, my 5-pound Yorkie, Opie James, was tragically attacked at a local dog park. In his memory, I vowed to dedicate my life to rescue. The very next day, the universe responded to my plea when I found a New York Times newspaper in my driveway, despite not subscribing. An article about “Dead Dog Beach” in Puerto Rico caught my eye, and I volunteered that same day, working with the rescue for several years.
During this journey, I encountered many incredible independent women rescuers across Puerto Rico who needed support. To assist them, “PRoud Rescuers of PR” was founded, enabling these dedicated individuals to continue their vital work in helping animals in need.
Since our inception, we have saved over 1000 dogs and puppies, and more than 1000 cats and kittens. We believe in the power of unity and teamwork, and together, we are making a significant impact.
“Run to the rescue with love and peace will follow.”
-River Phoenix
Katharine Drucker
Adoption Coordinator
My name is Katharine and this is my PRoud rescue girl, Jolie. I am honored to be Adoption Coordinator for PRoud Rescuers of PR. Always having a passion for animals, and believing that rescues are just extra special, are the reasons I love doing what I do.
Theresa Bellafiore
Adoption Coordinator
My name is Theresa, but my family calls me PT (Petey) ever since an incident with a foul ball at Yankee Stadium that fractured my nose. With a successful career as a Systems Engineer, the best part of my day has always been coming home to my husband and my fur baby, Hali. I’ve always been an animal lover. Dogs, cats, birds, fish, giraffes, cows, goats… even snakes! I feel an emotional connection to all creatures.
I’m also a volunteer Paramedic at my local Fire Department. I once had someone refuse transport to the hospital after a car accident because he wouldn’t leave his dog. I get it – I wouldn’t leave my dog either! So I broke all the rules and took the dog in the ambulance and waited for his family to come. After a house fire where the Chief rescued the family dog, and an alarm where a horse was rescued from a collapsed cesspool, I started the Pet Safety Program. I put pet first aid kits in the First Responder vehicles that include canine/feline oxygen masks. I teach Pet CPR and First Aid so we’re prepared to save ALL lives.
When my Hali died, the sadness was overwhelming. I came across “Frankie’s” photo on PetFinder and filled out the application. I wasn’t sure I was ready for another dog, but it’s just an application, right? Andrea called me the next day to discuss the adoption. When she told me about herself and PRoud Rescuers of PR, her passion and enthusiasm moved me. Not only was I ready to adopt this precious puppy, but I wanted to HELP! I just had to play a part in finding forever homes for these dogs. It’s as if I had no choice because this is simply who I am.
As I write this, “Frankie” now Max is snuggled up next to me taking his nap. He’s smart, goofy and an absolute pleasure! He’s a great dog who brings so much love and happiness into our home. He had a rough start, but I can honestly say that this little guy has done more for me than I can ever do for him. We are so blessed to have him.
Luz Santiago
Transport Coordinator
I rescue because it’s impossible not to. If you have eyes and a soul, you can see all the suffering of this broken souls abandoned by who they trusted or born surviving the harsh conditions they parents endured.
It is hard to tell when I started rescuing. I have always had the need to help strays. I tried my best providing health care, food and went beyond the unthinkable to find local homes. Then I realized the lack of commitment of the people in the island. About 5 years ago I met great friends that introduced me to the transport of rescues to better places on the mainland. It has been non-stop since then. Sadly, there is always a continuous source of beings in need.
I have had experienced sending pups through different rescues, shelters, and foster chains. Then, I had the luck that Andrea saw one of my post shouting for help and reached out to me. Proud Rescuers of PR has delivered that deep care experience where you can be sure your rescues are placed on a good home, have the opportunity to know the adopter and receive follow ups. That is something not all organizations can assure. The atmosphere of respect and been there to help is priceless.
Dianna Michniewicz
Event Coordinator
I grew up in the suburbs of Philly and had my first dog at 6 months — which started my insatiable love of them. As an adult, I adopted 3 with my ex-husband which lived to 18, 17 and 12. After losing them all within a year of each other, I took a break for 3 years till the emptiness in my heart drew me to Petfinder where I saw Chaos and fell in love.
I was approved and now have a sidekick that I can’t imagine my life without. I work for a wine importer and have the blessing to be at home as well as can take him on sales calls to the stores. He’s also good for a pop in on my lap during a zoom meeting. The last 2+ years have had so many laughs, kisses and snuggles that my heart is full again. Rescuing a pup or kitten and the work the rescues do is such a labor of love and I am so grateful to be able to finally give back in some small way and help all of these 4 legged souls find homes and their furever families.
Linda Lugo
Accounting
This is my Puerto Rican girl Lulu. I was fostering her for Proud
Rescuers of PR back in August 2022, but I couldn’t part with her. I
am a native Long Island girl who has always loved animals. My love
for animals followed me over the years into my real estate career
where I found homes for displaced pets.
October 29, 2012 was a game changer for me. Super Storm Sandy ravaged
Long Island, and there were over 700 dogs and cats that could not go
into temporary housing with their owners because of landlord
restrictions. Besides getting supplies to the volunteers through my
Realtor organization I personally volunteered 7am every day with dog
walking and crate cleaning at a Long Island facility that was offering
temporary homes. Some of the volunteers like myself requested
permission to foster some of the animals while their owners rebuilt
their lives. Dino was my first ever foster and stayed with me for 3
months.
Years later when I heard that Proud Rescuers of PR needed fosters I
jumped at the opportunity. I’ve known Andrea for years, so it was
easy for me to get back involved. I started fostering for
Proudrescuers in March 2022, and I continue to do so. A piece of my
heart attaches to every Sato that comes through my home, but I know
when they leave they are going to loving permanent homes. The foster
network on Long Island frees the rescuers in Puerto Rico to take more
dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens off the streets. It’s a phenomenal
group of humans!
Join Our Team!
Explore the many ways you can contribute to our cause and make a significant impact on the lives of Puerto Rico’s stray animals. Join us in creating a brighter future for these deserving animals and volunteer today!