History

EARS was founded by Peggy Hauptman, in 2001, supported by her husband, Paul Hauptman; daughter, Jaxzann Riggs-Berkowitz; other family members and close friends, with a vision to care for needy adoptable pets for life. Peggy was a woman with a pure heart who loved all living creatures.

Our Southwest Florida region is characterized by too much animal abandonment, abuse, and irresponsible breeding. Peggy personally supported increased spay/neuter programs, more aggressive adoption campaigns, and the development of a unique sanctuary to care for thousands of adoptable pets. Her dream was to build and operate a care-for-life sanctuary for domestic animals – dogs, cats and bunnies.

Peggy passed away in March of 2008 without realizing her dream but left it in the hands of the EARS’ board of directors, staff and volunteers committed to finalizing her dream.