DIRECT ACTION FOR GARY'S DOGS
OUR STORY
Founded by Tori Blossom, who brings over a decade of medical and frontline experience in animal welfare, DASH Dogs and Second Homes was created after seeing countless good dogs slip through the cracks, dogs who simply needed time, care, and understanding.
Tori saw the heartbreak firsthand and knew something had to change. She envisioned an organization that would focus on Gary, Indiana’s most overlooked dogs , the pitbull-type breeds, and give them the second chance they’d been denied for far too long. From that vision, DASH Dogs and Second Homes was born.
WHAT WE DO
We work directly with Gary Animal Control to improve outcomes for the city's most overlooked dogs. Our partnership extends far beyond transferring dogs into foster care. We advocate for dogs in need, coordinate lifesaving veterinary care, recruit and support foster families, respond when additional resources are needed, and work alongside Gary Animal Control officers to help dogs safely transition from municipal shelter kennels into loving homes.
Every dog entering our program receives comprehensive veterinary care, including spay/neuter surgery, a full series of boostered DHPP vaccinations, Leptospirosis protection, heartworm testing, parasite prevention, and any additional medical treatment or behavioral support needed to prepare them for a successful future.
Our dedicated foster families provide a safe, loving environment where dogs can heal, grow, decompress, rebuild trust, and learn what life in a home is like while awaiting their forever families.
Beyond the individual dogs we serve, DASH is committed to creating lasting change throughout Gary, Indiana. Through our ongoing partnership with Gary Animal Control, community outreach, education, advocacy, and collaboration with local organizations, we work to reduce shelter overcrowding, improve outcomes for dogs in need, and change the narrative surrounding these dogs. Together with Gary Animal Control, we're building a future where more dogs leave the kennel for foster homes, receive the care they need, and have the opportunity to find lasting homes.
OUR VISION
Our vision goes beyond rescue, it's about creating lasting change for Gary's dogs and the community they call home.
We envision a future where every dog entering animal control has the opportunity to receive the care, advocacy, and support they need to thrive. A future where these dogs are judged by their character, not their breed; where the community views them not with fear or bias, but with compassion and pride; and where every dog has the chance to find a loving home.
We strive to create lasting change by building a community supported animal welfare facility, expanding community resources, and continuing to promote responsible pet ownership, breed education, and advocacy.
Through collaboration with Gary Animal Control, community partners, volunteers, and supporters, we're working toward a future where no dog is defined by where they came from, every dog has the opportunity to write a new story, and second chances aren't the exception, they're the standard.