For as long as I can remember, I’ve felt a deep connection with animals of every kind. My first true experience caring for a pet’s medical needs came when I was just six years old. My cousin asked me to look after his beagle, Cartouche, while he was away, and entrusted me with giving her daily ear drops. I begged for the chance to help her, and I’ll never forget the pride I felt in being able to care for that beautiful dog. Though my professional life began in business, working in large city companies, that memory never left me. I always knew I would return to that experience of helping animals. About 25 years ago, I began fostering for a large Montreal rescue, which eventually led me to where I am today as the owner of a grooming business, working part time at an alternative vet clinic and more importantly, a lifelong rescuer. Over the years, I’ve worked with many rescue groups, caring for both cats and dogs of all ages. I’ve always felt especially drawn to those who are physically or emotionally challenged. The ones who need the most patience and understanding. With the support of my husband, my rescue team, many veterinary professionals and trusted trainers, I’ve been able to provide a safe place for these animals to heal and thrive. Alongside myself and my husband, we share our lives with rescue dogs and cats, and an ever-changing menagerie of special needs fosters. Our home, filled with this menagerie of “misfits” inspired the name Misfit Manor, a place where every animal, no matter their challenges, is valued and cherished.

Having retired after years as a dog trainer, it was a natural step for me to continue giving back to dogs in need. Finding the right rescue to volunteer with, however, was not easy — until I discovered Misfit Manor. With a mission to help the true underdogs — the ones so frequently overlooked – the elderly, ill, disabled or at risk of euthanasia, Misfit Manor champions those unable to help themselves. Here, every dog receives the love, medical care, and kindness they deserve, and I am continually amazed at their transformation. It is a privilege to assist these dogs on their journey and to work alongside an incredible team of volunteers who are compassionate, dedicated, and tireless in their efforts to give every dog a fresh start in a loving home.

When the first dog I loved as an adult, Goldie, passed away at 11, I made a promise that I would do whatever I could to help senior dogs in her memory. I wasn’t sure what that would entail but I knew I would figure it out as life happened. Several years later, not forgetting my promise, I walked into a local shelter and asked to meet the oldest dog looking for a forever home. A week later I was the proud owner of 2 large seniors. One passed away a couple of years later but I had the “Old Girl” for 8 years and loved her more every year that she aged. I met the founders of Misfit Manor Dog Rescue over 4 years ago and I knew I found “my people”- a rescue for senior and special needs dogs? Where do I sign up right now?? With Misfit Manor Dog Rescue I have been able to fulfill my dream of helping senior dogs. I am now so proud to be a member of the Board. Today I share my home with a senior rescue Chihuahua, an obnoxious senior cat, and a partner that, while being with me has learned the love of animals. I have an amazing family that supports me while I fulfill my promise to Goldie.

If not for my wife’s (Nahleen) unending passion for rescuing dogs, my life would certainly fall short of fulfilling and gratifying. To be in our home is to be completely enveloped in the dog rescue world from fostering ourselves, administering the daily requests and my part, to make sure it all adds up at the end. As treasurer, I embrace the opportunity to manage the many generous donations as well as the many expenditures that often range in the thousands of dollars. Our goal at MMDR has always been to be responsible, transparent and open when dispensing our the money we have been gifted.

With a lifelong love for animals and over 23 years of experience supporting children with special needs, I’m deeply committed to giving dogs the second chance they deserve. As a mother of four, I’ve learned the art of juggling disorder and compassion — skills that have proven invaluable in my work at Misfit Manor Dog Rescue. At Misfit Manor, I focus on helping special-needs dogs — especially those with physical challenges — find loving, permanent homes. I’m honored to be part of a team that celebrates the unique qualities of every dog, whether they’re quirky, misunderstood, or simply in need of a little extra TLC. I believe that every dog deserves a chance to thrive, and I’m dedicated to making that a reality, one rescue at a time.