What We Do


At Herding Hearts ResQ, we see a wide range of stories walk through our doors. We know these dogs are more than just beautiful; they’re incredibly smart, hardworking, and full of life. Many people are drawn to them because of their intelligence and loyalty, but not everyone realizes what a Border Collie truly needs. That’s where we come in.

When a dog first arrives, we assess their physical health and temperament. We have our vet spay/neuter every collie and get them up to date on all vaccinations. We take care of any additional medical care they may require. Some come to us because their owners couldn’t handle their high energy, or maybe their lives changed unexpectedly. Others arrive as strays or from overcrowded shelters, and some from extreme abuse and neglect situations. Each dog has its own story, but our job is always the same: to help them feel safe, give them the care they need, and find the right forever home.

Our “Collie Crew” plays a huge role. We provide safe spaces, daily exercise, and mental challenges that Border Collies thrive on. We spend time understanding each dog’s quirks, likes, and needs, because we know that not every home is a good match for a Border Collie. We provide basic obedience training and behavior modification to successfully prepare them for a home. We look for adopters who understand this breed’s intensity, their drive to work, and their need for engagement. This isn’t just about finding a home; it’s about finding the right home, where they can thrive.

Beyond rehoming, we also work hard to educate the public. We help potential adopters understand that Border Collies aren’t just pets — they’re partners who need mental stimulation, physical exercise, and a sense of purpose. When we match a dog with the right family, it’s a beautiful moment. We get to see these incredible dogs step into lives where they can be understood, loved, and truly happy. That’s why we do what we do.

Why We Exhist


Our founder, Janae Aguirre, witnessed firsthand the struggles and mistreatment that Border Collies often endure because of their remarkable intelligence and high energy. After falling deeply in love with the breed—and seeing these heartbreaking circumstances repeated time and time again—she was determined to create a true home for collies in need.

Too often, Border Collies face an undeserved and tragic fate, with some farmers choosing to end their lives simply because they do not understand them. Herding Hearts ResQ was founded to change that reality. We offer no-cost surrenders to ensure that every collie has a safe place to go, where they can receive compassion, training, and a second chance at life.

No dog deserves to suffer or be discarded. At Herding Hearts, we are devoted to saving the lives of those who need it most—because we believe, with all our hearts, that dogs often love more purely than humans ever could.

501(c)(3) tax-exempt status effective July 16, 2024.


Meet the Collie Crew

Janae Aguirre
Founder | President

Terry Aguirre
Vice President | Treasurer

Kristina Aguirre
Secretary

Our Partnerships