Our Team
Ethan Mercer - President
Ethan Mercer's passion for animals blossomed on the idyllic grounds of his family's small farm, where he formed deep connections with a menagerie of creatures. Among them, his special bond with the family's chickens stands out—so much so that he even house trained one of them, showcasing his innate affinity for understanding and caring for animals.
Growing up, Ethan's spirit thrived in the great outdoors, where he indulged in a myriad of adventurous pursuits, from paintballing to dirt biking to leisurely floats down the river. This love for adventure eventually led him to Phoenix, where he honed his skills as a Harley Mechanic, immersing himself in the intricate world of motorcycle craftsmanship.
Despite his time away, Ethan's heart remained tethered to his roots, and he returned to his hometown of Grand Junction, Colorado, where destiny awaited. It was here that Ethan crossed paths with Ally Mercer in 2018, igniting the spark that would lead to the creation of For The Howl Of It.
From its inception, Ethan has served as the driving force behind For The Howl Of It, assuming the mantle of President with unwavering dedication and vision. Central to his mission is his steadfast commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of animals—a calling inspired by his cherished companions, Corgis Archer and Kuma, who serve as beloved mascots and constant reminders of the boundless love and compassion animals offer.
Additionally, Ethan's compassion extends beyond animals to his commitment to helping the homeless community. He actively volunteers his time and resources to provide support and assistance to those in need, embodying his belief in the importance of empathy and social responsibility.
With Ethan at the helm, For The Howl Of It continues to soar to new heights, fueled by his passion, resilience, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of advocacy and action.
Ally Mercer - Treasurer
Ally Mercer's journey began in the heart of Colorado, where her passion for animal care bloomed from a young age.
Driven by her love for animals, Ally pursued higher education at Colorado Mesa University, graduating with a double bachelor's degree in Mathematics and Statistics, complemented by a minor in English.
During her time at college, Ally dedicated her free time to volunteering with animal transports, showcasing her commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of animals in need.
Her dedication to philanthropy extended beyond animal welfare as Ally actively contributed to the community by assisting in drafting bylaws for multiple rescues and non-profits.
In 2021, Ally, alongside Theresa Kahl and Nikki Wilkinson, recognized a need in the Grand Valley and co-founded the Colorado West Performing Arts Company. Ally's role as Treasurer not only underscores her financial acumen but also highlights her commitment to nurturing artistic endeavors within the community.
Ally's journey took a pivotal turn when she crossed paths with Ethan while working. Together, they recognized a shared vision for animal rescue and founded the organization in 2018. Since then, Ally has served as the Treasurer, playing a crucial role in ensuring the financial stability and growth of the rescue.
Ally Mercer's unwavering dedication to animal welfare, coupled with her leadership in the performing arts community, showcases her as a dynamic force driving positive change in both realms.
Madison Ruple - Secretary
Madison Ruple's life has been intertwined with animals since the beginning, shaping her into a dedicated advocate for their well-being:
From her early days raising livestock and showcasing animals for 4H, Madison developed a profound understanding of animal care and husbandry. Her experiences in 4H instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the bond between humans and animals.
Madison's passion for exotic creatures led her to care for a diverse array of species, including foxes, skunks, opossums, lizards, snakes, and birds. Her commitment to understanding and meeting the unique needs of each animal demonstrates her unwavering dedication to their welfare.
In a remarkable display of her compassion and dedication, Madison assisted in raising twin bear cubs for a zoo in Pennsylvania. This experience not only deepened her understanding of wildlife rehabilitation but also reinforced her commitment to conservation efforts.
Throughout her journey, Madison has shared her expertise and love for animals in various roles, including working at several pet stores. Her interactions with customers and dedication to ensuring the well-being of animals in her care have left a lasting impact on both humans and furry friends alike.
Upon moving to Colorado in 2018, Madison wasted no time in continuing her mission to make a difference in the lives of animals. Volunteering with For the Howl of It, she dedicated her time and energy to helping rescue and rehome animals in need. Her passion and dedication did not go unnoticed, as she recently stepped into the role of Secretary on the board in June of 2023.
Madison's journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to animal welfare and her tireless
Our Services
Rescue Mission
Our mission is to rescue and rehabilitate dogs and cats in need, providing them with a safe haven, medical care, and love while we search for their forever homes. Through our network of dedicated foster families and generous supporters, we strive to give each animal a second chance at life. We are committed to promoting responsible pet ownership, ending animal homelessness, and creating a compassionate community where every animal is valued and cherished.
Placement
Animal placement involves rescuing animals in need, assessing their health and behavior, and finding them suitable homes through adoption or foster care. This process typically includes intake, evaluation, foster care, adoption events, screening, post-adoption support, and long-term care for animals with special needs. Rescues work to match animals with loving, responsible homes while prioritizing their welfare and well-being throughout the process.
Protection
Animal protection involves safeguarding animals from neglect, abuse, and exploitation while promoting their welfare and well-being. This often includes rescuing animals from dangerous or harmful situations, providing them with medical care, rehabilitation, and safe shelter, and advocating for laws and policies that protect animals from cruelty and mistreatment. Animal rescue protection organizations work to ensure that animals receive the care and respect they deserve, working towards a world where all animals are treated with compassion and dignity.
Transportation
Animal transportation involves coordinating the safe transport of animals from shelters, overcrowded facilities, or dangerous situations to rescue organizations, foster homes, or adoptive families. This process typically includes arranging transportation logistics, such as vehicles, drivers, and routes, as well as ensuring the animals' comfort, safety, and well-being during transit. Animal rescue transportation plays a crucial role in saving lives by providing animals with access to better opportunities for adoption, rehabilitation, and care.
Get Involved
Join us in making a difference! Whether you foster, transport, or donate, your support directly impacts the lives of animals in need. Every act of kindness brings us one step closer to giving them the love and care they deserve. Together, we can change lives and build a brighter future for animals in rescue.