About Us

MISSION STATEMENT

To rescue, care for, and prevent cruelty to all domestic animals until they are adopted or live out their normal and healthy lives.

EARS IS.....
EARS was founded by Peggy Hauptman, supported by her family and close friends, with a vision to care for needy adoptable pets for life. Our Southwest Florida region is characterized by too much animal abandonment, abuse, and irresponsible breeding. Peggy visualized a No-Kill or Care-for-Life region by personally supporting increased spay/neuter programs, more aggressive adoption campaigns, and the development of a unique sanctuary to care for thousands of adoptable pets. She initially saw dogs and cats in the sanctuary but wanted to also provide for agricultural animals, bunnies, and other domestic pets in the future. Peggy passed away before her dream was realized, but her purchase of 25 acres of terrific property in Desoto County was the jump-start needed to move EARS forward. Currently, the site permit is expected in 2008.

The board consists of family and friends of Peggy Hauptman. Her daughter, Jaxzann Riggs, a mortgage banking business owner, serves as the chairman and has been on the board since 2000. Terry Hensley, former real estate agent and gift shop owner in Englewood, is Peggy's brother and has served the board since its inception.  Les Berkowitz, a specialty furniture store owner, is Jaxzann's husband and has served the board since last year. Mary Skaggs, HR Director for Sun Media Group, is a regional animal advocate and friend of Peggy. She was attracted to the board when Peggy acquired the property because of her own experience with shelter development. Attorney Vernon Davids, another family friend, was added to the board late last year. He has been attached to the organization for several years as an advisor to Peggy.