It has been said that all our pets want to do is please and unconditionally love us, but what about the animals that need help finding their forever family? Shaland Leach has been rescuing and aiding animals in finding a home for several years. When I asked about her background it was no wonder, she became addicted to helping animals. She has mentioned that she grew up half in Manhattan Beach with her mother and half in Palos Verdes with her father. At a young age, she was surrounded by animals as she was involved in horseback riding and had a little farm at her dad's house. I was not surprised as she was explaining about her childhood that she has found a career in making sure animals get the help and love they deserve.

Shaland started rescuing after she graduated and was working with her family company. One day she found a litter of kittens but as she went to grab them, she realized she knew nothing at the time about cats and how to take care of them. Leach then stated she kept one and was able to find homes for the rest of the litter. It was at this moment she realized just how much help animals need and became obsessed with rescuing.

Leach said "At first it was a hobby, I kept going and adopting animals and I was afraid they would say something about me adopting too many. So, I would sit outside in shelter parking lots and wait for people to bring boxes because I knew there were animals in there. One day I came home with 11 cats and had no plan, but I knew I wanted to help, and I knew I would eventually figure it out." She continued to explain that she sees a lot of different animals with very different needs as well. Eventually, this hobby led to her starting her non-profit organization called Rescue Bae. Leach stated, "I wanted to be more legit and official, then it just felt right to make what I do a non-profit. I was trying to be trendy and bring a younger vibe to the rescue world."

I then asked Shaland how her adoption process works and what kind of attention goes into it. It was then very evident how much time, effort, and care goes into making sure these animals are placed in the right homes. She said she doesn't care how long it takes and will never adopt an animal out to a family just because it is convenient for her and the rest of the non-profit. I then was curious how she decides on what home is the best fit for the animal. Shaland mentioned, "I have an application for each animal, I then do home checks and this process is important because the animals don't have a voice, you are the middle ground and voice for them since you are the one that chooses their home."

After hearing the way Shaland is, in a good way, picky about where the animals go, I was curious as to how she works with animals who may need a little more attention such as seniors or those who have medical problems. She continued to state " It is important that I get them fully vetted before they are adopted out. I don’t feel comfortable adopting dogs out until I have the full medical knowledge to give to people. As for seniors they are usually around 1,000 dollars minimum for the things they need specifically due to age. I also get every dog spayed and neutered. Since I also work in a veterinary, I feel comfortable and understand the way these procedures work as well." It is no secret that animals can be very expensive, so my next thought was how are these procedures being paid for. She continued to tell me that all the vetting costs started with her and that any extra funds she had would go toward these animals. Once Rescue Bae became a non-profit the adoption fees helped with the expenses as well as a small group of donors.

After having the privilege to talk with Shaland Leach it was evident how much love and care goes into her work. I left the conversation inspired by the amazing way she has been able to impact the community. I asked Shaland if she had any last things to say regarding rescuing and she mentioned "It is really important to look for rescuers that have a lot of knowledge about the dog. It always comes down to matching the family with the animal. Be open to all ages and all breeds. Lastly, I think a lot of people are afraid to rescue because they may have problems, but it truly makes a difference if you have the right person to work with."

As an animal lover myself, hearing what Shaland has been working on is so special and an amazing way to help those animals in need. If you are interested in adoption and rescue, I think it is fair to say the team at Rescue Bae is there to help and always has the animal's best interests at heart. And although Rescue Bae will be going through a rebranding, the mission, love, and care will always remain the same.

Want to Adopt or Donate?

https://rescuebae.com/

Instagram: @Rescue_Bae

Facebook: Rescue Bae

PetFinder: Rescue Bae

Email: adopt@rescuebae.com

Phone: 310-946-9561

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Bio:

Maileena Faaita is a south bay native who grew up in Torrance and is currently finishing her bachelor's degree in multidisciplinary studies with honors and will pursue graduate school. She grew up playing soccer and is now a collegiate and semi-professional athlete. Aside from sports Maileena has recognized her passion for writing and storytelling. Being able to capture and share stories for the world to experience is Maileena's ultimate career goal.