JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – What began as a mission to rescue neglected horses has grown into a sanctuary for all kinds of animals, thanks to the compassion and determination of the team behind Southeast Georgia Equine Rescue (SGER).
During our Passion 4 Pets Adoption Event on Wednesday, Founder and CEO of SGER, Heather Gavitt, shared the heartwarming—and sometimes heartbreaking—stories of a few of their current residents.
Among them is Sweet Pea, a gentle pup found abandoned in Brantley County, severely underweight and covered in filth. After months of care, Sweet Pea’s loving temperament has blossomed.
“She doesn’t meet a stranger,” Gavitt said. “She loves kids, loves to swim — she’d be perfect for someone who enjoys the beach.”
Another resident looking for a home, Red, has a story that’s both tragic and inspiring. A stray in Wayne County, Red was shot in the face by a frustrated neighbor. Scheduled to be euthanized, her fate changed when a friend of Heather’s spotted her at the vet and called for help. Now, after nearly $8,000 in medical expenses, Red lives happily at the rescue, though she requires special care and a patient adopter.
SGER is no ordinary shelter. Operating as a large cage-free facility, it’s home to 60–70 dogs at any given time, all of whom interact and play together daily. This social environment helps the animals prepare for life in forever homes.
Passion 4 Pets: Adoptable Pets in Northeast Florida & Southeast Georgia
While adoptions are available, the process is selective.
“We’re a little strict on where they go because we don’t want them to end up where they came from,” Heather explained. Still, for those willing to open their hearts and homes, SGER offers a chance to make a difference in an animal’s life.
And the care extends to the youngest of rescues, too. During the segment, viewers met Shadow, a three-week-old puppy born via emergency C-section — the sole survivor of her litter.
SGER is currently building a new facility in Wayne County and is in need of donations to support its growing mission. Those interested in helping — whether through adoption, financial contributions, or simply sharing the rescue’s story — can click here.
“Even if you can’t adopt,” Heather said, “just share. It all helps.”
Click here to learn more about Southeast Georgia Equine Rescue (SGER) and to view the animals up for adoption.