In July, 2015 Carolina Big Hearts Big Barks Rescue was founded.  We were a rescue dedicated to large breed dogs. The kind of dogs who have the hardest time getting out of the shelter, especially bully breeds. Over the 7 years of operating as a 100% volunteer, foster based rescue, we saved, rehabbed and found loving homes for over 1,200 large breed dogs, mostly bully breeds. In 2022, we realized while what we were doing was helpful, it wasn't enough.  We needed to get the root of the problem.  Spay and Neuter is the only way we as a community are going to reduce the number of dogs in need and the number of dogs that end up in the shelter.  At this time, we transitioned from a rescue to a Foundation focused 100% on community spay/neuter efforts. 2022 was a transition year, how are we going to do this, who do we need to work with, etc. With the help of some amazing volunteers and other 501c3 non-profits, the Spay and Neuter Coalition of the Southeast was started.  In 2023, we spayed and neutered 124 large breed dogs.  That means we may have prevented up to 2,000 dogs entering the shelters, rescues or worse in 2024.  But, we are just getting started and very excited to partner with more non-profit organizations across the southeast and provide community spay and neuter services where it is needed most!

Frequently Asked Questions

• How many dogs can 1 unspayed female and her mate create?

In one years time a female can have 2 litters, average litter size of 8 equals 16 unwanted dogs in year one.  That doesn't sound like a lot, but if those dogs stay in tact, over 6 years, that can lead to 67,000 unwanted dogs.

• What exactly does the Foundation do to support these efforts?

Big Hearts Big Barks Foundation is dedicated to fundraising the money it takes to create and implement community spay and neuter programs with out pre-qualified 501c3 partners in the Southeast.  The foundation raises the funds and distributes the funds to the local non-profits who have a community spay/neuter program. 

• How do you know the funds are being spent on community spay/neuter

Partner non-profits are required to track the dogs vetted, where the vetting was done and the associated cost.  

• Does a dog only get Spay or Neuter?

​No, all dogs treated are Spay or Neutered, Vaccinated for Distemper/Parvo and Rabies, Heartworm tested and go home with both post op pain meds and a cone for healing.  If the dog is heartworm positive, the owner is provided with medication to kill heartworms and prevent it from happening again. 

• Are my donations tax deductible?

Yes! We are a 501c3 non profit organization registered with the IRS. If you need a donation letter for tax purposes don't hesitate to reach out! If you'd like to make a donation you can do so HERE