We are a 24/7— 365 rescue even after the adoption. We care for all our babies and want them with the best families and in wonderful and loving homes. We work very hard to get them back on track for our adopters. We deliver solid, healthy dogs. We provide training support to keep your dogs on the straight path. We want success for everyone.
We serve San Diego County and other surrounding counties based on an approved adoption contract. All dogs are fully vetted, microchipped and spayed/neutered. Our dogs come with a full adoption kit of supplies. We do a full application and home check at the time of adoption.
The People behind K9 Connection
Raffaella Leevy
Raffaella handles and coordinates most of the operations here at K9 Connection. Whether it’s fostering, adopting, or just helping dogs get the medical attention they need; she works to provide a safe and healthy environment for the animals in her care.
Operating with a large network of other rescue organizations — she rescues 200 to 300 dogs a month — mostly from shelters across the border in Mexico. She takes her time when adopting in order to “find the perfect family or situation” for dogs.
Raffaella takes in any breed that needs help. Sequentially, many of the dogs she takes in have medical problems and may have special needs in comparison to others. She fosters her own dogs and works with the principle that no dog should be left behind.
Vicky Hetrick
Since 2005, I have been fortunate enough to have been involved in the animal care business. I began my career as General Manager at Helen Woodward Club Pet and later moved to The Animal Keeper Encinitas in the same capacity.
It was over the years at Animal Keeper that I developed relationships with the top rescue groups in San Diego. I offered them space in our facility when boarding was slow. Some of these groups were Coastal German Shepherd of San Diego and Bichon Fur Kids to name a few.
In 2012, I started K9 Connection Pet Re-Homing and Adoption, a 501(c)(3) charity specializing in small hypoallergenic dogs for seniors and families. I help re-home dogs for people who can no longer care for them. I also do special requests and help find the perfect dog for each lifestyle. Happy dog, happy family.