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About Haven of Love Dog Rescue
Our Mission
Haven of Love Dog Rescue is dedicated
to being a Haven for dogs in crisis in our and surrounding communities regardless of breed, age, or physical condition. To rescue, rehabilitate, and find loving forever homes for these abused, abandoned, and unwanted dogs. Working together with other rescues and outreach and consulting with animal welfare professionals using current accepted practices to ensure healthy dogs through education, advocacy and affordable services, and working to foster a community where the animal-human bond is celebrated and nurtured.
Our available dogs
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
MEET PJ
THE DOG THEY WARN YOU ABOUT…
(the one people overlook… the one you shouldn’t)
Meet PJ.
He’s 70 pounds of muscle, joy, and pure, unapologetic love.
A 1-year-old pittie with a smile so big it practically introduces him before we can.
And here’s the truth…
PJ is exactly the kind of dog people skip over.
Because he’s black.
Because he’s a pittie.
Because people think they’ve already decided who he is.
But PJ didn’t get that memo.
Because PJ is the dog who:
— drops into a play bow like life is one big game
— looks at you like you hung the moon
— carries his toys like prized possessions
— melts into affection the second you give him a chance
He is goofy, loving, and SO full of personality.
The kind of dog that makes your house feel alive.
And under all that muscle?
A giant, squishy, loyal heart just waiting for someone to choose him.
⸻
What we know about PJ:
About 1 year old
~70 lbs of handsome
Kids 10+ he’s strong and still a puppy - still learning about mouthing
Seems Dog friendly
Not cat tested yet
Neuter scheduled for April 1
No unaltered females until then
⸻
But here’s what matters most…
PJ doesn’t need perfection.
He doesn’t need a mansion.
He doesn’t need someone with all the answers.
He just needs someone who sees past the color of his coat…
and realizes he might be the best decision they ever make.
⸻
Foster. Foster-to-adopt. Just give him a chance.
Because once you meet PJ…
you won’t be able to un-meet him.
And we promise—
this is one of those dogs people look back on and say…
“I can’t believe I almost scrolled past him.”
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
MEET MARCEE
🌾 For the Woman Who Feels Things Deeply… This Is for You.
You know who you are.
You’re not looking for the loudest dog in the room.
You don’t need the one that loves everyone instantly.
You don’t need easy.
You want real.
Marcee is 1½ years old. A chow chow, boxer, pit, and lab mix with fur so soft it almost feels unfair. But it’s her heart that’s different.
She’s cautious. She thinks before she trusts. She protects herself at first because life taught her to. She needs a quiet, low-traffic home. No kids. No other animals. Calm energy. Predictable routines. A space where she can finally exhale.
That’s not a flaw.
That’s survival.
And here’s what we wish more people understood:
Marcee does learn to trust.
All of our volunteers handle her daily. She walks beautifully. She takes treats gently (and LOVES them). She trains easily because she wants connection. She leans in once she feels safe.
And when she trusts you?
You won’t just have a dog.
You’ll have devotion.
She will look for you in every room. She will light up when you come home. She will love you with a depth that only comes from a soul that almost gave up — and didn’t.
She isn’t for everyone.
She’s for the woman who understands that rescue isn’t about adopting the easiest dog.
It’s about healing the one who needed it most.
If you’ve ever said, “I don’t mind putting in the time,”
If you’ve ever believed that broken doesn’t mean beyond saving,
If you’ve ever wanted to be someone’s whole world…
Marcee is waiting.
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
MEET SAMMY
We know Sammy has one request that might make people pause — he needs to be the only animal in the home. But don’t let that make you scroll past this incredible little guy.
Sammy isn’t wildly dog reactive. He’s not the dog that loses his mind when he sees another dog on a walk. In fact, he does great on walks and can pass other dogs just fine.
The truth is… Sammy lived on the streets for a while, and when survival is your daily reality, food and resources become something you learn to guard. Because of that history, Sammy simply feels more comfortable not sharing his home or meals with other animals.
What’s important to know is that Sammy has shown no resource guarding toward people at all. He is incredibly sweet and trusting with humans.
And honestly? Once you meet him, you’ll see why being an only pet isn’t a downside — it just means he gets to soak up all the love.
This little dude is ridiculously cute and unbelievably sweet. He has the softest eyes, the kind that look at you like you’re the most important person in the world. He loves snuggles, chewing on a good bone, going for walks, and riding in the car. He just wants to be close to his person.
Sammy Highlights
• Around 1–2 years old
• Must be the only animal in the home
• 6-foot fenced yard required — he’s little but surprisingly athletic and can jump!
• Not overly reactive to dogs on walks
• No resource guarding toward people
• Great on a leash
• Excellent in the car
• Loves bones and snuggles
• Kids 12+
Sammy doesn’t need a house full of animals to be happy.
He just needs one person or family to love him — and he will return that love a hundred times over.
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
MEET LUCA
Handsome Luca is currently at the shelter, and while he’s safe, what he really needs is a home. A place where he can relax, decompress, and start settling into the life every dog deserves while we finalize his journey to adoption.
Luca is looking for a foster-to-adopt home that can help him transition out of the shelter and into a family environment. Dogs show their true personalities once they’re out of a kennel, and Luca just needs someone willing to give him that chance.
⚠️ Important notes:
• Luca is not neutered yet, so homes with other dogs cannot have unaltered females
• A 6-foot fenced yard is a must
A foster-to-adopt home allows Luca to start bonding with his future family while we finish up his vetting.
✨ What Luca Needs
• Foster-to-adopt home
• 6-foot fenced yard required
• No unaltered females in the home until he is neutered
• A patient family willing to help him settle in
• Love, structure, and a comfy place to land
Shelter life is stressful for dogs. Getting Luca into a home will help him relax and truly show the great dog we know he can be.
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
Meet Ryker!
Ryker is a lovable, friendly, and affectionate Golden Doodle looking for the right forever home. He’s a smart boy who responds with enthusiasm to training and truly enjoys learning and engaging with his people.
Ryker is currently working on walking on a leash and responds well to resource guarding work. He has so many wonderful qualities and would make a great companion for someone looking for a loyal dog to share their life with.
Ryker would do best in a home without children and with an owner who is willing to commit time to him and support both his physical and emotional wellbeing.
He is not a fan of the crate, so he would likely do best in a home where he can be a bed partner and stay close to his people.
Ryker has so much love to give and is just waiting for the right person or couple to see what a special companion he can be.
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
MEET PRECIOUS
If you’re looking for a cute, adorable little imp with a big personality and an even bigger love for her people, Precious might be the girl for you.
At just 8 months old and about 7 pounds, this tiny Chihuahua has already settled into being a sweet, loving companion. Precious loves nothing more than cuddling close to her people. Her favorite place to be is curled up in your lap, tucked into the crook of your arm, or snuggled under the covers right next to you. Being close to her person is truly the highlight of her day.
Like many young dogs, Precious is still learning the ropes and will need a family committed to continuing her training and helping her build confidence. Daily reinforcement of her training is important to help her remain relaxed and well-mannered. Experience with dogs who have come from difficult or traumatic situations will be helpful and will be discussed during the adoption process.
Precious is a playful little girl who loves toys and enjoys having collagen chews to keep her busy and out of mischief. Providing appropriate outlets for her energy helps keep her happy and settled—after all, she is still a puppy.
She currently uses puppy pads, which was especially helpful during the winter months. Continued outdoor potty training will be important in her new home. At this time she may not hold her urine all night, so having a pad available overnight will help her continue to succeed.
Precious walks nicely on a leash using a harness and enjoys being outside when the weather is warm. She also knows several commands including sit, wait, leave it, settle, and she has a good recall. She understands boundaries and will wait for an invitation before going through doorways.
She is good for nail trims if done slowly, and she responds well to positive reinforcement and treat-based training.
Precious has shown no indication that she would be a biter, and she has gotten along very well with another dog during playtime. Her behavior around cats is unknown.
Because of her small size and training needs, a home with very young children is not recommended. Older, respectful children may be considered, though interactions have not yet been observed.
A home visit will be required for her adoption. A meet-and-greet outside the home will also be required and must include all members of the household, including other pets and older children.
If you believe Precious could be the perfect addition to your family, the first step is submitting an application. All applications will be carefully reviewed to ensure the best possible match for this special little girl.
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
MEET GIGI
✨ GIGI: Certified Chaos Queen Looking for Her Kingdom 👑🐾
Let’s be honest…
Gigi is not your “perfect, already trained, sit quietly in the corner” kind of dog.
She’s the steal your sock, check your counter, investigate your trash, love you with her whole entire soul kind of dog 😅
And at just 1 year old, this tiny pittie girl is still very much in her puppy era — which means:
💥 Big personality
💥 Big energy
💥 Even BIGGER love
Gigi is the kind of dog that:
- Greets every human like they’re her long-lost best friend ❤️
- Plays beautifully with dogs of all sizes 🐶
- Walks great on a leash 🚶♀️
- Is doing awesome with potty training 🙌
- Sleeps like an angel in her crate at night 😇
But she’s also still learning that:
🚫 Counters are not buffets
🚫 Trash cans are not treasure chests
🚫 Humans don’t love being jumped on (even if she does 😅)
She’s mouthy, bouncy, and full of life, so she’d likely do best with older kids who can handle her playful energy.
Right now, Gigi is also working through a skin condition that requires frequent baths — and she’s been such a good sport about it 🛁💛
The best part? It’s already improving, and she’s expected to make a full recovery.
The good news?
She’s smart, eager to please, and already making great progress. She just needs someone willing to guide her, laugh with her, and love her through this goofy stage.
And here’s the thing…
Dogs like Gigi? They grow into the most incredible companions — because all that chaos turns into loyalty, personality, and a bond that’s unmatched.
She hasn’t been cat tested yet, but she’s shown no interest in pigs or chickens 🐷🐔 — so that’s a fun bonus!
💛 Gigi isn’t perfect… but she’s perfectly worth it.
She just needs someone who sees the diamond in the chaos.
BECOME A HERO AND FOSTER A DOG IN NEED
Foster a Pet
Fostering a pet is a great way to provide temporary care for an animal in need. It also helps us free up space in our shelter for more animals. Fill out the application below.
FOSTERS NEEDED
MEET OUR SWEET GIRL NALA - HEARTWORM POSITIVE
Hi… my name is Nala.
I’m not the loud dog in the room.
I’m not the one bouncing at the door.
I’m the one watching.
The one learning.
The one trying to be brave.
For the first two years of my life, I lived outside. I didn’t know couches. I didn’t know leashes. I didn’t know what it felt like to belong to someone.
I only knew how to survive.
When I first came to Haven, I was scared of everything. The doors. The floors. The outside world. I didn’t even go out for a whole month. It was all just too big.
But then something changed.
I learned taking food from their hands was safe.
I learned hands can pet softly.
I learned brushing feels really, really good — especially when I’m nervous.
Now I go outside multiple times a day. I’m still conquering my fear of the leash, but I’m doing better. I feel safest when I can decide to go out on my own, so a fenced yard would help me a lot. I do need a 6 foot fence!
I’ve even started exploring the living room. Just a little. But for me? That’s huge.
One thing that makes me feel very safe is my kennel. It’s my space. My little world where nothing bad happens. Having a home with a quiet room or a space that can truly be mine — somewhere I can retreat and breathe — would be ideal for me. I do best when I know I have a safe place to land.
I want to trust.
I really do.
You can see it when I look at you. I’m trying to decide if you might be my person. I’m not going to rush into your arms. But if you’re patient… if you give me time… I will bond deeply with you.
I won’t be everyone’s dog.
But I will be someone’s whole heart.
Right now I need a calm home. No kids. No cats. Maybe no other dogs unless they are very quiet and respectful. I need space, patience, and someone who understands that brave doesn’t always look bold. Sometimes brave is just one paw forward.
They’ll give you everything I need. Fostering is free.
What I need most… is someone willing to help me write the next chapter of my life.
If you have a quiet home and a gentle heart, maybe you’re the one I’ve been waiting for.
MEET ANNABELLE - HEART WORM POSITIVE
She kept running back… looking for the people who abandoned her.
This is Annabelle.
She was found in Rouge Park, terrified, limping, and running through traffic. Cars were swerving to avoid her… and heartbreakingly, some even tried to hit her. But she wasn’t running away.
She kept running back.
Back to the spot where the people who dumped her left her — like she was waiting for them to come back.
When our team finally trapped her, she was exhausted. Scared. But there was also relief in her eyes… the running could finally stop.
Annabelle had a collar that was way too tight, ribs and hip bones protruding from being underweight, nails that clearly hadn’t been touched in a very long time… and she smelled like skunk from surviving outside. Life had clearly been hard on this little girl.
But despite everything she’s been through…
Annabelle is incredibly sweet.
She takes a minute to check you out, just to be sure you’re safe — and then she melts. Rub her neck and she leans right into you like she’s been waiting her whole life for someone to be gentle with her. She’s affectionate, silly, and still full of energy despite everything.
Annabelle appears to be a shepherd/husky mix, but she’s tiny — almost fox-sized, about 25 pounds, and around 5 years old.
Right now what she needs most is a safe place to decompress and learn that the world isn’t such a scary place anymore.
We are looking for a foster or foster-to-adopt home for Annabelle.
A home where she can finally rest.
A home where she doesn’t have to run anymore.
A home where someone will show her that humans can be kind.
Because of her husky/shepherd instincts, a securely fenced yard with at least a 6-ft fence is required.
Annabelle has already survived the worst.
Now she just needs someone willing to help her write the next chapter — the one where she is finally safe, loved, and home.
MEET IRIS - HEARTWORM POSITIVE
Iris is 5 years old.
And almost her entire life… she has been waiting for someone to love her.
For the first 4½ years of her life, Iris didn’t know soft beds or warm homes or people who cared. She lived in a filthy garage surrounded by garbage, neglected and abused, surviving day after day in a place no dog should ever have to live.
But even in that awful place… Iris became a mom.
She protected her puppies.
She kept going.
She survived.
And somehow — after everything she endured — she is still sweet.
Still gentle.
Still hopeful.
When Iris first meets you, she might be a little unsure. Life taught her to be careful. But if you give her patience… if you give her kindness… something beautiful happens.
She starts to believe.
Her tail begins to wag.
Her goofy smile appears.
Her silly, playful side comes out like a flower finally blooming after a long winter.
And you realize you’re watching a heart heal right in front of you.
That’s Iris.
A dog who has every reason not to trust… but is brave enough to try again.
And yet, somehow, this beautiful survivor is still waiting.
We’ve had a couple of applications, but they weren’t the right fit for her needs — and after everything Iris has been through, we refuse to let her be let down again.
Because Iris deserves her forever.
She deserves a quiet, loving home where she can finally exhale…
A fenced yard where she can feel the sun on her face…
A cozy bed where she can sleep without fear…
And a person who will show her every single day that she is safe and loved.
Iris’ needs:
• Fenced yard
• Low-traffic home
• No cats
• Calm dogs are okay
• Kids 15+
The right person will understand that dogs like Iris are the most special ones of all — because when a dog who has known hardship finally gives you her heart… it is the purest love you will ever know.
Please… don’t let Iris spend another year waiting.
Be the person who changes the rest of her life.
our available cats
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
MEET DOVE
Dove is back… and we learned something important about her.
Sometimes adoptions don’t fail — they teach us what a pet truly needs to be happy. And Dove told us loud and clear.
This beautiful 11-month-old silver girl was adopted, but the tomboy in her came shining through. Dove decided that sharing her kingdom with another cat just wasn’t her style. She’s a little too confident and playful for a feline roommate… and the resident cat agreed.
So Dove is back with us, and now we know exactly what she needs:
A home where she can be the star of the show.
With people? She’s an absolute sweetheart.
She loves pets, will roll over for belly rubs, and turns on the purr motor the second you start giving her attention. Her soft grey coat and bright green eyes make her just as beautiful as she is charming.
But when it comes to other cats… Dove prefers the solo act life. No sharing the spotlight.
And honestly? She’ll thrive that way.
She loves sitting in windows watching the outside world, supervising your daily activities, and soaking up all the affection you’re willing to give. She’s playful, curious, and just the right mix of sweet and spunky.
So if you’ve been looking for one amazing cat to rule your home, Dove is ready to take the job.
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
MEET TINA: THE SWEETEST SOUL!
Are you looking for the "Goldilocks" of kittens? Meet Tina, a 4-to-5-month-old sweetheart who is the perfect balance of fun and chill!
While some kittens can be a bit "extra," Tina is famously mellow for her age. She absolutely loves to play, but she’s not the type to bounce off the walls or climb your curtains. She’s much more interested in a gentle game with a feather wand followed by a long, cozy nap in a sunny spot.
Tina’s Profile:
• Age: 4–5 months (the "sweet spot" of kittenhood!)
• Personality: Playful, affectionate, and notably calmer than your average "crazy" kitty.
• Health: Fully up to date on all shots and already spayed.
Tina is ready to bring her gentle charm to a forever home. Whether you're looking for a companion for your current pets or a first-time feline friend, Tina is a wonderful match!
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
MEET EDGAR
Excuse me… quick question.
What are you people waiting for?
I mean really… I’ve done everything on my end.
I’ve posed dramatically in the window like a mysterious model.
I’ve perfected the adorable hammock pose.
I’ve shown off my handsome face.
I’ve demonstrated my professional cuddling abilities.
I even put my little kickstand leg on display because apparently people think it’s cute.
And yet… still no adopter.
Let’s review my resume, shall we?
- Name: Edgar
- Age: About 1.5 years old
- Special Feature: Titanium knee (yes, I am partially bionic, you’re welcome)
- Battle History: Hit by a car as a kitten… survived like the warrior I am
- Current Status: Extremely handsome, very sweet, and accepting applications for my forever human
Yes, I have a little limp.
Yes, my leg sticks out like a tiny kickstand when I sit.
But honestly? It just adds character. And makes me extra adorable.
What I’m really looking for is simple:
A comfy window.
A warm lap.
And someone who appreciates a very resilient, very lovable, slightly sarcastic cat.
So again… I ask…
What are you people waiting for??
— Edgar
(Titanium knee. Titanium spirit. Mildly offended I’m still available.)
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
MEET CINDER
Every day, other cats get chosen.
Applications come in. Homes open up. Lives change.
And Cinder?
She’s still here. Quietly watching. Quietly hoping.
Cinder isn’t the cat that rushes up to strangers or demands attention. She’s the girl who sits back, observes the room, and slowly decides when it feels safe to trust.
But when she does… it means everything.
She’s the kind of cat whose love isn’t instant — it’s earned. And that makes it deeper, stronger, and incredibly special. The moment she chooses you, the moment she leans in and decides you’re her person… it’s a bond that feels like you’ve been given something rare.
Cinder is 5 years old, fully vetted, and does well with respectful cats and dogs who understand boundaries. She would thrive in a calm home with someone patient enough to let her bloom in her own time.
She’s waiting for the person who understands that quiet love is still love.
The person who sees past the shyness.
The person who knows the quiet ones are often the most loyal.
The person who will give her the safe, permanent home she’s been waiting for..
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
MEET ANGELO
The sweetest survivor you’ll ever meet.
Not long ago, Angelo was out there on his own…
Dumped outside and left to fend for himself.
By the time he was found, his little body told the story.
He was torn up with wounds and clearly had been through more than any cat should ever have to endure.
But Angelo never gave up.
For the past few months we’ve been caring for him, helping him heal, helping him learn that people can be kind… and watching him slowly blossom into the most loving boy you could imagine.
And now?
He’s almost completely healed — and his heart is wide open for love.
Angelo is about 1½ years old and truly one of the sweetest cats you’ll ever meet. He absolutely lives for affection. If you sit down, don’t be surprised if Angelo is instantly in your lap, soaking up pets and giving you those soft, grateful eyes.
He gets along wonderfully with other cats, dogs, and kids, making him an easy addition to many homes.
Angelo is FIV positive, but please don’t let that scare you away. Cats with FIV can live long, happy, completely normal lives with routine care. FIV is not spread through casual contact like sharing food bowls or grooming — it’s typically only transmitted through deep bite wounds.
What Angelo needs now isn’t sympathy…
He needs someone who sees past the label and sees the incredible cat he truly is.
After everything he’s been through, Angelo deserves a home where he will never be left behind again.
A warm couch.
A loving family.
And a lifetime of the affection he gives so freely.
Could you be Angelo’s forever?
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
READY FOR ADOPTION
MEET CAVELLO
The Quiet One
"Sometimes the quiet ones break your heart the most."
Cavello isn’t asking for toys or excitement. He isn’t demanding or loud. He just leans in—gently—like he’s been waiting a long time for someone to notice him.
His Story:
After losing his home when his building in Detroit was torn down, Cavello has every reason to be guarded.
Instead, he chose hope. He is a survivor who is simply grateful for the smallest kindness: a soft blanket, a gentle voice, or a hand that stops to pet him.
What He’s Looking For:
He doesn’t carry anger. He just wants:
A quiet home.
A warm lap.
A person who won’t leave.
The Details:
Male | ~7–8 years old | Calm, affectionate soul.
- FIV Positive: This just means a slightly weaker immune system. He can live a long, happy life and can safely live with other pets!
Cavello isn’t asking for much. Just someone to see him… and choose him.
ADOPTION PENDING
ADOPTION PENDING
ADOPTION PENDING
MEET SWEETIE
My name is Sweetie, I am almost 5 months old
and apparently my forever family hasn’t noticed me yet.
Which is confusing because I am:
- Extremely affectionate
- Professionally trained in couch cuddling
- Very polite and easygoing
- And objectively adorable
I’m the kind of cat who quietly becomes your favorite part of the day.
You sit down…
I curl up next to you…
and suddenly everything feels a little better.
So if you’ve been looking for a sweet, gentle companion…
I’m right here.
Still waiting.
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