About Us
WHAT WE DO
About Fly To Freedom Dog Rescue
Fly to Freedom Dog Rescue is a foster-based U.S. 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing homeless dogs from Anguilla and finding them loving adoptive homes in the United States.
Founded in 2019 by Anguilla enthusiasts Leigh Fazzina and David Straub of Philadelphia, the organization was created to address the urgent need for rescue efforts on the small Caribbean island — just 16 miles long and 3 miles wide — where limited resources, overpopulation, and a single overcrowded shelter often leave dogs with little chance of survival.
Since its founding, Fly to Freedom Dog Rescue has expanded into a well-coordinated network of eight core volunteers managing daily operations, more than 100 foster families, and over 300 volunteer transporters who accompany rescued puppies in-cabin to the United States. For medium- and large-breed dogs, the organization coordinates with private charters and cargo airlines, leveraging strong partnerships with pilots, captains, customs brokers, and dog handlers throughout Anguilla, St. Martin, and Puerto Rico.
All rescued dogs are placed in loving foster homes across the United States, where they receive care, socialization, and medical attention until they are ready for adoption — ensuring every dog is treated like family on their journey to a new life.
Where Our Dogs Come From
Fly To Freedom Dog Rescue maintains a trusted partnership with Morlens Veterinary Clinic, the only veterinary clinic on the island of Anguilla.
The organization rescues dogs that have little to no chance of local adoption on Anguilla including those at risk of euthanasia due to severe shelter overcrowding. Once a dog is owned by Fly To Freedom Dog Rescue, it is cared for and boarded at Morlens Veterinary Clinic or in a private foster home on island, until transportation to the United States is arranged.
At Morlens Veterinary Clinic, every dog receives comprehensive care, including medical exams, vaccinations, treatments, and any necessary medications. The clinic staff — a dedicated team of three veterinarians, three veterinary technicians, and an office manager — ensures the dogs are healthy, socialized, and well-prepared for their journey. Dogs enjoy playtime three times a day in the clinic yard, and larger dogs are walked regularly by volunteers.
All dogs are fully vaccinated for rabies, distemper, leptospirosis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza, and undergo spay or neuter procedures as needed. These measures, along with strict adherence to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, ensure every dog is ready for safe entry into the United States — complete with accurate medical records and required travel documentation.
Together, Fly To Freedom Dog Rescue and Morlens Veterinary Clinic provide each dog with expert care and compassion, giving them the best possible start before finding their forever homes.
WHAT WE DO
Our Mission & Philosophy
- Fly To Freedom Dog Rescue Mission Statement: To enrich the lives of the dogs that we save from Anguilla and to find forever homes where they will thrive for life. To treat every dog as if he/she were our own personal pet and to give every dog the respect, love and dignity he/she deserves.
- Fly To Freedom Dog Rescue Vision: To continue building a supportive community where our dogs’ lives are valued and respected. To remain a no-kill rescue organization.
- Fly To Freedom Dog Rescue Philosophy: To give every one of our dogs an “as long as it takes” mindset to find the “right” committed forever home he/she deserves.