Animal Haven

We are devastated to share that Merlin crossed the rainbow bridge over the weekend. 💔

Please take solace knowing that Merlin’s last few days on this world were absolutely full of comfort and love. He settled right into his foster home with one of Animal Haven’s most dedicated volunteers and was with her when he passed. Knowing his time was precious, she tried to make every moment with him special. Merlin made new friends, visited fun places, ate yummy snacks, and was never wanting for love and attention. We truly believe Merlin found happiness and peace during his last few days.

It was no mystery that something was wrong with Merlin. On a superficial level, he had a multitude of congenital issues that were very obviously the result of irresponsible breeding. After his initial vet visit, which cleared him for foster, he was awaiting a neurologic consultation to determine his quality of life and to see if we could give him a chance at a better future. We are heartbroken that he left us so quickly and we wish he had more time, but we are so incredibly grateful that he got to know love before he passed.

We are no strangers to loss but this one hit particularly hard. Merlin suffered needlessly his entire life because of the greed and selfishness of the “breeder” who brought him into this world. His life wasn’t an accident and, even more terrible to consider, neither was his death. We don’t believe it was a coincidence he was abandoned when he was and that is even more infuriating.

Thank you for sharing Merlin's story and sharing our sadness, grief, and anger. We hope Merlin’s life and memory brings attention to the terrible realities of the countless dogs that are directly - and indirectly - suffering from irresponsible breeding. Breeders exist because there is a demand and a market, fueled by the uneducated and misinformed. We hope things change.

Adopt don’t shop.
RIP Merlin 🌈

Make way for the QUEEN! 👑

Hermia is one of 6 cats that came to last year all the way from Saudi Arabia. These lucky felines got a one-way ticket to NYC after their former shelter had to shut down—leaving these cats with uncertain futures. At Animal Haven, Hermia quickly established herself as the queen of our cattery, and the nickname stuck! Hermia was adopted back in March, and has continued to reign over her new kingdom since. 🐱🏡

Hermia even got a little update to her name: the addition of “Ameera,” which means princess/commander/leader in Arabic. 💜

We love hearing Success Stories about our ! Share yours by emailing us at [email protected] or sending us a DM. 💜

Quartz, Galena, and Marble are only 2 months old and ready to find homes of their very own! 🐶

These sweet pups are up for adoption at Animal Haven. 💜Our adoption hours are from 1-7pm every Tuesday-Friday and 12-4pm on Sunday. No appointment is necessary to meet them during those hours.

Check out our website (link in bio) for more information on our adoption process and how to visit!

☀️Don’t forget our Summer Lovin’ Adoption Special is going on right now too! We’re taking $100 OFF all adoptions from now until Labor Day!

We can’t believe how far these dogs have come. 💜

In May, we took in over a dozen dogs that had been rescued from commercial breeder facilities. These dogs could no longer be used for breeding or were unable to be sold, making their futures uncertain. When they arrived at , some were completely shut down. We really can’t fathom what their lives were like before they arrived, but we were determined to show them something better…

Now, we’re celebrating their transformations. 🎉 Odie has his very own couch and an adorable onesie, Charlie Brown has a new Yorkie twin to snuggle with, and Tinkerbell has a backyard of her very own. For probably the first time in their lives, they can just be DOGS! 🥹

We still have two more dogs from this situation waiting for adoption: Daisy, a 6-year-old Miniature Schnauzer, and Quenby, a 3-year-old Miniature Schnauzer. We’re looking for patient adopters who see the potential in them and understand it might take a bit more time before Daisy and Quenby are the type of dogs who want to snuggle on the couch or lean in for a pet. Are you willing to open your heart and home to one of them? Send us a DM or email us at [email protected] to set up a meet & greet! 🐾

☀️Summer Lovin’ Adoption Special!❤️
Meet a pup, crazy for you! Or a kitty, cute as can be!

All summer long, we’re taking $100 OFF all adoptions!

If you’re home for the summer, it could be the perfect time to welcome a new furry friend into your family. From an extra playful kitten to a lazy senior dog, it’s $100 off all adoption fees until Labor Day at Animal Haven.

No appointment is necessary during our walk-in hours to meet your future pal! Check out our website (link in bio) for information on our available animals, adoption process, and where to find us. Stop by Animal Haven and adopt a dog or cat today! 💜

It’s someone’s gotcha day…! 🐶🎉

Little Adalee came to last year from the Caribbean, where she was likely born on the street or in a backyard. This adorable pup stole the hearts of her adopters, who recently reached out with this AMAZING update.

“We came to Animal Haven in July of 2023, deciding to adopt a dog after losing our previous companion of 15+ years. It took us 10 months to feel ready for a new furry friend. The staff at Animal Haven was exceptional—thorough and caring. We spent time with several dogs, but it was a puppy named Adalee who stole our hearts instantly. Adalee, a “street dog,” exuded both puppy energy and a calm, confident demeanor. Adopting her was one of our best decisions ever.
 
We named her Stevie Nicks and took her to our apartment. She settled in almost immediately. Stevie is fun, intelligent, and friendly towards dogs and people alike. She adjusts effortlessly to new situations, including our move to the suburbs. Stevie adores long walks, runs with her dog park pals, solving puzzles, and meeting new friends—canine and human alike. She has a way of making friends wherever she goes. And everyone loves her pink nose! Above all, Stevie brightens our lives every day. She’s there with cuddles, tail wags, and kisses, making every day great. 
 
Somewhere, our previous dog, Sadie, is undoubtedly looking down on us with approval for how Stevie has filled her big paws. Stevie brings us immense joy!
 
We can’t praise Animal Haven enough for their incredible work. They genuinely care for their animals, ensuring each one finds the right home. Our vet was impressed by how healthy and well-cared-for Stevie was upon adoption. If you’re considering adopting a dog or cat in or around New York City, please think of Animal Haven. Thank you, Animal Haven, and Happy 1st Gotcha Day, Stevie Nicks!” 🥹🥹🥹

Share your with us via DM or by emailing [email protected] 💜

Gouda is bringing the ORANGE CAT ENERGY! 🧡

Gouda, known as Gudetama while at , was found in an apartment building where it’s believed he was abandoned by one of the tenants. If you know orange cats, you know they often have BIG personalities—and Gouda was no different. 😼 He could be a bit territorial while at the shelter, but we suspected that once this big boy had a chance to settle into a home of his own, his sweet personality would come out. 😻

Gouda’s adopter shared that he is “adjusting so well and relaxing more and more every week. He is such a good boy!”

We love hearing Success Stories about our ! Share yours by emailing us at [email protected] or sending us a DM. 💜

Adoptable PUPPIES!! 🐶💜

Meet the “Y” litter! These precious pups have us asking so many questions like... WHY are they so darn cute?! We are absolutely smitten with these girls and we know you will be too once you meet them. Sweet and gentle, we know these 2-month-old terrier mixes would do great in almost any home. They were rescued from an overcrowded shelter from the south where their future was uncertain. We're so thankful to be able to give them a chance at a home and family. 🥹

When it comes to puppies, remember that you’re starting from scratch! From basics to potty training to socialization - they are looking to you to point them in the right direction so they can be the best pups they can be. They’re blank slates ready to learn but they need guidance to be set up for success!

We have no information about their parents so we can only estimate that they will be around medium-sized.

Come meet Yippee, Yelena, Yahoo, and Yuri at Animal Haven! We have walk-in hours every Tuesday-Friday from 1-7pm and Sundays from 12-4pm. No appointment is necessary to meet our animals, just stop by! All info on our adoption process is on our website - link in bio! 💜

❤️‍🩹 NUTMEG UPDATE ❤️‍🩹 Nutmeg is an entirely new dog...

Not only has Nutmeg transformed from the emaciated pup we met back in February, but she has a HOME! 💜🎉

Nutmeg was rushed to an emergency vet earlier this year after collapsing. Weak and nearly skeletal at just 22 lbs, her body was covered in painful open wounds. The former owners opted for euthanasia and surrendered Nutmeg to the vet, where Animal Haven was called to step in to help save this poor girl. Once stabilized, Nutmeg came to Animal Haven, where we facilitated her daily thiamine injections, IV fluids, and bandage changes, as well as carefully-controlled feelings to prevent organ failure. Even on her lowest days, Nutmeg was a complete sweetheart—leaning in for head rubs and wagging her tail. 🥹

After a couple months, Nutmeg went to a foster home to continue building strength. It’s no surprise that her foster fell in love with her and made things official shortly after. 🥰 He shared photos and an update with us, saying, “She loves to give hugs—if she sees somebody she knows when we’re out walking she will go up to them and stand, wrap her arms around them and not let go. It really is the cutest. She loves being in the grass. The first time she was off leash (fenced in area) she ran laps and laps around us and wouldn’t stop for a while. And she is fast!  At first she had no interest in toys—I’m not sure she even understood what they were. But now she catches her stuffed lamb from Animal Haven if it’s tossed to her and will play tug a bit. She loves to give kisses and be near her people.”

We love hearing Success Stories about our ! Share yours by emailing us at [email protected] or sending us a DM. 💜

Introducing Amie’s babies! 🥰 These teeny terrier mixes have quite the story…

Found as a stray in Louisiana, Amie arrived at back in March with the hopes of finding a home. As it turned out, Amie was about to be a momma! Luckily, her adopter was willing to take Amie home and care for her during and after the birth of her puppies. 🐾

Now, this litter is ready to find adoptive homes of their own! Gunther, Henrietta Louise, Bobby Jo, Elly Mae, and Bubba are 2 months old and cute as buttons. Amie’s sixth puppy, Babe, is being evaluated by our talented veterinary team for suspected Megaesophagus, a condition that can typically be managed by feeding her in a special Bailey chair, once she’s big enough. We hope to know more about Babe soon! ❤️‍🩹

Puppies are a LOT of work, and these little ones are blank slates! They’ll look to you to learn all the basics, from potty training to sit & stay. Are you up for the challenge? Come meet Amie’s puppies during our walk-in hours! 💜
Tuesday–Friday, 1pm–7pm
Sunday, 12pm–4pm
Or Saturdays by appointment

Monday got you feeling like this? We have the solution…KITTENS! 🐱

Even this grumpy lil’ one has something to celebrate: they and their litter mates are safe and sound at .

It’s , so our shelter and others are overflowing with kittens. If you’d like to add a fluffy (and potentially grumpy) kitten to your family, stop by during our walk-in hours, below! Catch a sneak peek at some of our newest arrivals in our stories 👀 💜

Meet your new best friend at Animal Haven, Tuesdays through Fridays from 1pm to 7pm, Sundays from 12pm to 4pm, or Saturdays by appointment.

Martha Kamberis | July 12, 1989 - May 29, 2024

It is with great sorrow and difficulty that we announce that Animal Haven’s beloved friend and kennel manager, Martha Kamberis, lost her long battle with cancer last week. We are utterly devastated and her passing just doesn’t seem real.

In the field of animal welfare, we encounter loss on a regular basis, but nothing could have prepared us for the loss of one of our own. Not only have we lost a coworker, we have lost a dear friend, a daughter, a sister, and a voice for the animals. Martha was with Animal Haven for over a decade, starting as an earnest volunteer when she was just 21 years old before eventually becoming our incredible kennel manager. Many of our staff and volunteers watched her grow into the sassy, strong-willed, and opinionated woman we all knew and loved. She was an integral part of our team, a staple in our day-to-day lives, and her absence weighed heavily on us after she began her cancer treatments.

Martha was fiercely passionate about animal welfare and her fiery enthusiasm was contagious to anyone who crossed paths with her. Her connection with animals was magnetic and instinctual, they all naturally gravitated towards her, pulled in by an unexplainable force that no one questioned. From the tiniest days-old kittens clinging to life to the most massive of dogs needing behavioral intervention, no animal was a lost cause - just a challenge that she took personally.

Animal Haven was Martha’s second home and she considered the dogs under her care extensions of her own family. It’s important to know that she didn’t just work with our animals, they were her world, and her job didn’t stop she went home. Whether she was bringing sickly fosters home to her own mini-menagerie or taking long-term dogs upstate on weekend trips to Camp Underdog, Martha lived and breathed for the animals whose lives she helped transform.

[Continued in comments...]

Check out Melody! 😎

Melody is one of the THREE momma dogs that arrived at late last year, along with Maggie and Aria. She and Aria were both rescued from what was likely a backyard breeding situation in Georgia. Melody had given birth just days after we committed to her rescue, but thankfully the new family settled in quickly and Melody was a superstar mom. 🤩🐶

Not long after her puppies were adopted, she was too! Her new family adores her, and shared a sweet update with us: “Melody—we call her Melly for short—has settled in so nicely. First few weeks she was very anxious. But now she is home and extremely comfortable. She loves to cuddle and loves hugs. She’s still skittish of other dogs, but that’s okay, we just keep her away. Her favorite spot is looking out the window. She spends a good part of her day there. My daughter has taught her all simple commands like Sit and Paw. She actually is quite eager to learn. Melly might have had a rough start in life, but those days are far behind her now. She is safe and loved.” 🥹

We love hearing updates like Melly’s. Share yours with us via DM, or by emailing [email protected]. 💜

Check out our new bud, Rockie!

He's a 1-year-old Yorkie/Chihuahua mix and he's up for adoption at Animal Haven. Rockie was recently surrendered because his owner was moving and couldn't keep him. He's previously lived with a child but he hasn't really been around other dogs much and is a little nervous around them. This sweet little guy is looking for a new family and hopes it will be with you! 💜

Rockie is only 10lbs and is a great size for the city. Come visit him at Animal Haven! We have walk-in hours every Tuesday-Friday from 1-7pm and Sunday from 12-4pm. Adopt Rockie!

🌟Let’s talk about the real stars of our Benefit for the Animals: THE PUPPIES!!! 🐶💜

Obviously the most anticipated appearances of the night were our furry entourage, gracing our guests with their presence at the very exclusive Puppy Penthouse and the star-studded purple carpet.

A few have already been adopted since Wednesday but check out this lineup of pups still available that rubbed shoulders with the likes of Jon Stewart, Carolyn Murphy, Edie Falco, and more!

In order: Andy, Neko, Amelia, Neo, Amos, Nash, and Alvin!
(The “A” pups are 4 months old, the “N” pups are 3 months old!)

Our Spring Puppy Promotion is still going on so the adoption fees for EVERY canine in our care, puppy or senior, is just $100! It is the perfect time to adopt a puppy, adult dog, or senior. Come visit our adoptable puppies and dogs at Animal Haven! No appointment is necessary during our walk-in hours which are every Tuesday-Friday from 1-7pm and Sundays from 12-4pm!

Ready for the cheesiest update ever? 🧀🐱

Brie and Gruyere are HOME! 🥰 This bonded pair found their way to after being surrendered. Their adopter recently shared an update on these two tabbies, saying, “Those cheesy cats may have been renamed, but they still have their beautiful personalities intact, and we just adore them! Thank you guys, our fam feels complete again. 😻”

We love hearing about our 💜 Share yours via DM or by emailing us at [email protected]!

REUNITED 🐶🐶‼️

Juniper, Rowan, and their siblings arrived at Animal Haven all the way from Alabama…and we’re happy to share that all four have been adopted! Juniper (now named Maple) and Rowan (now named Rocco) here got extra lucky: These two pups were adopted by two (human) sisters, which means a lifetime of playdates for these littermates 💜👯‍♀️

Maple’s adopter shared that both pups are doing well, and “they were so happy to be reunited and really love being together.” 🥹

Ready to take on the ups and downs of puppyhood like these two sisters did? If you see a pup in your future, now is a great time to visit —during our Spring Adoption Special, adoption fees have been lowered to $100. 🌸 Come find your new bestie during our walk-in hours:

Tuesday–Friday, 1pm–7pm
Sunday, 12pm–4pm
Or Saturdays by appointment

Sirus is HOME! 🎉

Sweet Sirus came to just a few weeks ago after being surrendered. While he was clearly a bit confused to find himself in a shelter, this big ‘ol fluffball quickly had a fan club—and it wasn’t long until his new mom came along to take him home! 🥰

She recently shared an update with us: “I just wanted to be in touch after adopting Sirus to let you know that he is an absolute DREAM of a dog. I can’t believe I’m lucky enough to get to be his mom! He loves meeting new people, going to the dog park, and (oddly) wearing his rain jacket! Having him has been such a gift and I am so glad he’s found his forever home with me. 

“He’s really filled a hole in my heart that my last pup left when she passed, and I can’t thank you all enough!” 💜💜💜

We love hearing about our in their new homes! 🏡 Share your by sending us a DM or emailing [email protected]

❤️‍🩹DOTTY UPDATE❤️‍🩹

A few weeks ago, we shared Dotty’s story as he battled parvovirus—and asked for your support. We’re so happy to share that not only has Dotty recovered, but he’s been ADOPTED! 🐾

At just 10 weeks old, Dotty was fighting for his life—and was asked to help. Dotty was diagnosed with parvovirus, a deadly virus that often means the worst for young pups if left untreated. Thanks to our Recovery Road Fund supporters, we were able to say yes and ensure Dotty received life-saving, supportive care in the ICU from a dedicated veterinary team. 

Thankfully, Dotty overcame the virus and soon went into a foster home to rest and recuperate…where he quickly won the heart of his foster mom, who decided to keep him! “Dotty, now named August, is doing so well and has completely bounced back from Parvo! He’s the sweetest, goofiest little pup and has completely taken over my apartment. His favorite snacks are ice cubes, peanut butter and frozen carrots and he spends most of his time chasing his tennis ball, chewing on his corn chew toy and napping. We’re looking forward to getting him potty trained and acclimated to his Upper East Side life over the next few months.” 💜🐾

Mama Yeti arrived at last year with her two kittens, Igloo and Coleman. 🐈🐈‍⬛🐈‍⬛

Yeti’s adopter recently reached out with an update on this sweet lady, and we’ll be honest…it made us a bit misty-eyed! 🥰

“I adopted Yeti (now known as Eden) back in August. Although it hasn’t been a year yet, she has grown so much and has evolved into the smartest and sweetest cat I could ever ask for. She has become an important, loved, and extremely spoiled member of our family. I remember her adoption profile stating that she loves people, and she truly does.

Whenever I return home she’s always there to greet me by the door and Eden is always so talkative. Adopting her was one of the best decisions I have ever made, and I can’t imagine a life without her.” 🥹💜

We love hearing Success Stories about our alums! Share yours by emailing us at [email protected] or sending us a DM.

Happy National Pet Day! 💜
Today we want to bring attention to a very special litter of pups who have really been through the wringer in their few months on this planet and they really need some extra love.

When we pulled this adorable litter of low-riders from an overcrowded shelter in the south, we truly didn’t know what were getting ourselves into. Not long after their arrival, the puppies grew lethargic and one by one, started showing grave signs of sickness. The entire litter tested positive for parvovirus, a life-threatening illness for under-vaccinated puppies unless they receive treatment and round-the-clock supportive care. Thankfully, we caught it early enough and rushed the tiny pups to our emergency vets before it was too late.

After spending days in the ICU, despite all odds, we’re relieved to report that every single one of them made a full recovery! 🙌 We are so incredibly thankful that each resilient puppy from this litter made it through the worst and they are finally ready to start their lives anew.

Although Gia, Giada, Giggles, Gigi, and Gilbert are now back to feeling like their normal puppy selves again, they are facing their next toughest challenge: finding a home. 🥺 On top of it all, the hard truth is that black dogs in general have lower adoption rates than other dogs and we hope these little pups don’t get overlooked. These are the sweetest pups who have been through so much and truly deserve a chance to start a new chapter.

Future adopters should be mindful of a few things, but most importantly, parvovirus is highly contagious to young, unvaccinated dogs so they shouldn’t be in contact with other puppies or unvaccinated dogs for at least 1 month, as they will be shedding the virus during this time. Once past the 4-week mark, they’ll resume their busy puppy lives as usual!

If you have any questions about future care or parvovirus, please submit an inquiry to learn more. But these guys are all up for adoption and you can visit the “G” pups at Animal Haven during our walk-in hours! 💜

We have the SWEETEST update about our little Concerto! 🎶🐾

Concerto is one of Aria’s puppies, who arrived at with his mama and litter mates at just a few days old. Aria was rescued from a backyard breeding situation, where she and other dogs were sadly used to produce litter after litter of pups. Now, Concerto has found his new home, and we couldn’t be happier to see him thriving—naps, belly rubs, snuggles and all. Concerto’s adopters say he’s “so sweet and happy!” 🥰💜

We love hearing Success Stories about our ! Share yours by emailing us at [email protected] or sending us a DM.

💜2024 BENEFIT FOR THE ANIMALS💜
Get your tickets for our annual Benefit for the Animals and join us on Wednesday, May 15th! We’re coming together for an unforgettable evening to support the dogs and cats of Animal Haven.

Spend the night indulging in a cocktail-style dinner, snuggling with adorable adoptable puppies, and bidding on an array of amazing silent auction experiences. Don’t miss the opportunity to make a true difference in the lives of animals in need.

Tickets are selling fast, so don’t wait - grab yours now and be a part of the change that saves lives.

We can’t wait to see you there! Check the link in our bio to get your tickets! 💜

Guess what…Maggie has been ADOPTED! 🎉 🥰

You might remember that Maggie arrived at Animal Haven heavily pregnant, after being abandoned in the cold just a few weeks before Christmas. A Good Samaritan took Maggie in, but without the resources to care for a pregnant mama and her puppies, they asked to help. Despite being at capacity, we couldn’t turn Maggie away—so we made space for her and waited patiently for her puppies to arrive. 💔

Maggie went into labor on Christmas Eve and delivered 12 beautiful, healthy puppies at Animal Haven—the largest litter we’ve ever had! To ring in the new year and celebrate Maggie’s big litter, we named each puppy after a month of the year. Once Maggie’s puppies were weaned and off to their new homes, we got to know the real Maggie: a big ol’ lovebug, with a little puppy pep in her. Thankfully, it wasn’t long until Maggie found a home of her own—including two adorable human sisters! We’re so happy for Maggie and this new chapter in her life. 💜🐶

Maggie’s family shared, “Maggie is doing great and I think really loving it here! We love this girl so much!”

We love hearing Success Stories about our ! Share yours by emailing us at [email protected] or sending us a DM.

💔DOTTY IS FIGHTING PARVO💔
We received an urgent plea for tiny pup Dotty, who is only 10 weeks old and is now fighting for his life at our partner emergency vet. He was diagnosed with parvovirus, a deadly virus that often means the worst for young pups if left untreated.

Dotty is currently in the ICU receiving life-saving, supportive care that he wouldn't be able to get without round-the-clock attention from his dedicated veterinary team. Despite all that he's going through, we remain hopeful that he'll get through the worst of it soon and be ready for a foster in just a few days.🤞

Until then, Dotty needs your help. We are able to support his care through our Recovery Road fund but we can’t do it alone. Please consider donating to his ongoing care or share his story so he can get the help he needs to survive this terrible virus. You can donate through the fundraiser in this post, Venmo (), or our website. Please help Dotty. ❤️‍🩹

This we’re sending all our love to and honoring our alum Sara 💜🐾

Sara paved the way for so many senior dogs, especially senior pitties. The work that Susie’s Seniors and founder Erin have done over the years is nothing short of incredible - not only raising awareness for the love that senior dogs bring, but giving so many the golden years they deserve. We’re so grateful for the Animal Haven alums who were part of her family. Here’s a bit more about Sara, from Erin:

“In this picture is Sara, the first pit bull we ever adopted when we moved out of our building with breed bans. Living in an apartment building that banned certain breeds has always been an extremely frustrating circumstance for me. So when we finally moved into an apartment that had no breed restrictions the first thing we did was set out to find a senior pit bull: welcome Sara!

Sara was so tolerant. She endured the wrath of our moody, 5 pound Chihuahua Simon. She welcomed guests into our home as if everyone was royalty. She was lunged at and bit twice on the streets of NYC (both of whom were NOT pit bulls) and she did not respond in either situation. And she lovingly welcomed our first born baby into our home with ease. She had so many amazing qualities.

Sara’s departure from our lives was incredibly sad. It was only a few weeks into COVID. She collapsed a few times and the vet discovered she had an aggressive, cancerous mass on her heart that burst and blood filled up the sac surrounding her heart. Just two days after learning this news we had to make the impossible decision of saying goodbye. We couldn’t let her suffer more even though I so badly wanted her around forever.

But Sara paved the way. From that point on we have always had a senior pit bull in our home. She was a true gem and her memory will always live on. We love you, Sara!”

We love Sara, too. Rest in peace sweet girl. 💜