Our Mission

Carpe Diem Rescue & Sanctuary is a grassroots animal rescue organization based in Wells, Vermont. Founded in September 2021 by Heather MacIntyre, the organization is built on the belief that every animal deserves love, compassion, proper care, dignity, and the opportunity to find a safe and permanent home.

Since its founding, Carpe Diem has rescued more than 2,000 dogs from shelters, streets, abandonment, abuse, neglect, and other dangerous circumstances. Each animal receives individualized care, including veterinary treatment, rehabilitation, patience, and support throughout the process of healing and finding a suitable home.

Although dogs have been the rescue’s primary focus, Carpe Diem’s mission extends to animals of all kinds. Heather has rescued horses from neglectful situations and kill pens throughout the United States, giving them the opportunity to recover, retrain, and find loving homes. The rescue has also helped pigs, chickens, ducks, goats, rabbits, cats, and many other animals in need. With the right property, Carpe Diem could significantly expand its capacity and provide care for an even greater number and variety of animals. Every rescue would be given the time, attention, and individualized support necessary to begin a new chapter defined by safety, dignity, and hope.