Henry Haven harmony

SANDUSKY — Animals are living out their golden years at a sanctuary created by two Sandusky graduates. David and Heidi (Roth) Henry were born and raised in the city and have lived in several places over the years. Both still have family living locally. When the couple decided they wanted more space and a quiet setting, they bought a property with about 5 acres in Arkansas which became the Henry Haven sanctuary. They've been rescuing animals for more than 20 years and supporting them with personal income. The Henrys pursued nonprofit status and were able to secure it recently to support their mission. A variety of animals including dogs, Katahdin sheep, miniature horses and donkeys call the Henry Haven home. A love for animals David graduated from Sandusky High School in 2000 with Heidi following in 2001. They were high school sweethearts. After his graduation, David enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, which led to the couple being stationed in New Orleans. They then moved to Detroit, back to Sandusky and then to Phoenix. In September 2023, the Henrys moved to a 5-acre property in rural Arkansas to pursue a passion of theirs: building an animal sanctuary. "We have opted not to have human children. Instead, choosing to rescue and care for animals," Heidi said. The Henrys were drawn to animals from a young age because of their innocence and unconditional love. "Each animal has their own personality, and seeing them blossom in our care is incredibly beautiful," David said. "And it goes without saying that their presence alone provides emotional support when you need just a little love." Even though Heidi is no longer practicing, she spent 10 years as a registered veterinary technician, and she still has her license. "Our hope is to provide a soft landing for animals, so they can live their golden years in a quiet home that's filled with love while receiving the medical care they need," Heidi said. "And when the time comes, to respectfully usher them to the other side with the dignity that all animals deserve." The Henrys have built relationships with several rescues and shelters and have welcomed more than 30 animals to their haven over the years. Many of the animals are seniors or have a medical condition. "Our residents come from all walks of life," David said. The couple were previously foster/hospice volunteers and welcomed animals that were terminal and had limited time. Other animals came from people who could no longer provide adequate care for various reasons. Some animals have also come from hoarding situations or being abandoned. The Henrys currently have nine dogs varying in age from 10 years to 16 years old, two tortoises, four senior miniature horses, one senior miniature donkey and her foal and two Katahdin sheep. Funding their mission With rescuing animals for more than 20 years, the Henrys supported their care through personal income — spending upward of $16,000 a year. Expenses increased to more than $100,000 with the addition of the sheep and equines in 2024. Both David and Heidi have full-time jobs with large corporations that allow remote work, so they're able to transition easily from chores to work. A typical day for the couple starts at 4 a.m. They feed the dogs and administer medications and supplements. After Heidi takes a daily run, they head to the barn to feed, refresh water and clean stalls for the horses and sheep. As the sun rises, the couple jumps into their full-time jobs. And when that work is done, they start the process over by completing evening chores. "While weekends allow for more one-on-one time, we do our best to hang with the herd each evening — doling out treats and attention before heading indoors to spend quality time with the pups," David said. There are times when things can be challenging — from an animal that is sick or feeling off, to having issues with the property's well or battling the impacts of Mother Nature. The Henrys have learned to adapt when things don't go as expected and have built a network for the times when something is outside their expertise. "While we have routines, oftentimes, we never know what the day will bring," Heidi said. Because of the work they carry out with the sanctuary, the couple was encouraged to pursue nonprofit status. They recently achieved that goal and are now able to accept donations to support their mission. "We are passionate about building awareness surrounding the importance of rescuing, fostering, adopting and overall animal welfare," Heidi said. "We focus on senior, hospice and medical needs animals as they are often the misfits and outcasts that are often overlooked." People can donate to the Henry Haven through various platforms. Anything that is donated will help David and Heidi give animals the best life possible at their sanctuary. "While their stays are often short, and some of our days long, it's extremely rewarding knowing that their last years and moments will only be filled with love," David said. People interested in following the Henry Haven can find the nonprofit on Instagram and Facebook. Want to donate? • PayPal: paypal.me/thehenryhaven • DonorBox: https://donorbox.org/the-henry-haven-sanctuary • Zelle: TheHenryHaven@yahoo.com • Venmo: @TheHenryHaven • CashApp: $thehenryhaven