Meet the Herd

Jessi

Jessi was born and raised in the city of Winnipeg.  Although a city dweller for the majority of her life, Jessi was always surrounded by furry companions and was never without a dog by her side.  Her passion for animals soon extended to horses where at the age of 27 Jessi established roots in the country and bought her first horse Gunner, who today remains her loyal steed.  Gunner even carried Jessi down the isle on her wedding day! 

As a full time critical care flight nurse, Jessi works to help save the lives of people every day.  The rewards of a happy ending are immense.  While Jessi has dedicated her career to saving the lives of human beings, she dedicates her heart and soul into rescuing animals in need of a second chance.  Discouraged by the senseless neglect, abuse and torture that animals endure all over the world, Jessi attempts to speak for the animals that don't have a voice and fight for the animals who are broken.  Hooves `N Hounds was born out of Jessi's passion to highlight the worth and spirit of animals in need of help.  What started as simply a home for foster dogs has now developed into a fully functioning boarding and rescue facility for dogs, horses and animals alike.  Hooves 'N Hounds was established in 2013 opening the gates for our first boarders/rescues.  Jessi and her husband Gerr are the heart and soul of Hooves 'N Hounds where they dedicate hours upon hours into their boarding and rescue facility.  With the help of 2 older children and the giggles of two younger children, family and friends, Jess and Gerr are able to meet the demands running a boarding/rescue facility imposes.  They often come into the house after final chores are done covered in mud, horse poop, hay and other lovely things but they always have a smile on their faces.  Nothing is more fulfilling in life knowing that you are making a difference in the lives of otherwise broken animals.  Restoring hope, trust and faith in animals so that their spirit can shine through the scars is why we do what we do!  

Hooves 'N Hounds started as a dream 8 years ago when Jessi adopted Mungo, an American bulldog puppy.  Failing to thrive as a healthy vibrant puppy, Jessi took Mungo to a vet who told her to put Mungo down because she was born with "red" paws; indicative of a fatal disease.  Refusing to give up on her beloved friend, Jessi sought a second opinion.  Today, Mungo is 8 years old, healthy and happy as ever ruling the roost at Hooves 'N Hounds!   

What started because of a sick little puppy Jessi refused to give up on 8 years ago has now become a fully functioning boarding and rescue facility.  With the help of her supportive and dedicated husband Gerr, Jessi has managed to fulfill her dream, forever leaving a mark on the lives of numerous four-legged friends.  The demands of having a boarding and rescue facility are shared with four amazing kids (not goats - actual humans) who all pull up their sleeves to lend a hand.  From a newborn all the way to a First year Education student, this family runs the gamut.  Additionally, Hooves 'N Hounds is home to three quirky horses, three beautiful dogs, five mischievous cats, five chickens, three goats and one pot bellied pig.  Anchored by Jess and Gerr, they wake up every morning thankful to have wonderful kids, animals and a successful boarding and rescue facility!