About
Us
Our Story
The Second Chance Program was created to provide a safe, compassionate place for small companion animals when their families can no longer care for them. We believe every pet deserves the opportunity to find a loving home, regardless of their age, medical needs, or circumstances.
Originally established as a division of Forest City Rats in January 2026, the program grew from an increasing number of requests from pet owners looking for a trusted place to surrender their animals. What began as helping a handful of families quickly evolved into a dedicated rescue and rehoming program focused on rats and other small companion animals.
Today, the Second Chance Program operates as its own initiative, specializing in the surrender, rehabilitation, and adoption of small pets. Every animal is treated with patience, compassion, and respect while we work to find the best possible forever home. Our goal is not simply to rehome pets, but to support both animals and the people who love them through life's unexpected challenges.
Haley
Hi! I'm Haley, founder of Forest City Rats and the Second Chance Program.
Animals have always been at the center of my life. I work remotely in veterinary medicine in non-clinical roles, which allows me to dedicate a significant amount of time each day to caring for our rescue animals.
Our home is shared with a wonderful variety of pets, including rats, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, geckos, fish, dogs, and cats. Caring for so many different species has given me firsthand experience with their unique needs and strengthened my passion for animal welfare.
While Forest City Rats began as a responsible breeding program, I discovered that rescue and rehoming were what truly fulfilled me. Helping families through difficult situations, giving animals a safe place to land, and watching them begin their next chapter has become my greatest passion.
As the need for small animal rescue continues to grow, I'm committed to growing the Second Chance Program alongside it.
Brian
Brian is the co-owner of Forest City Rats and an integral part of the Second Chance Program.
A lifelong animal lover, Brian grew up surrounded by pets and has always had a passion for caring for animals. Today, we share a pet filled home and he's just as devoted to each of them as he is to the animals that come through our rescue.
Brian graduated from Western University, having successfully completed a Bachelor of Science Honours Specialization in Geography and Environment. He now works as an Animal Care Technician for UWO, where he is committed to providing exceptional care and maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare.
Brian has a hard time saying no to an animal in need. Whether it's helping with a surrender, setting up an enclosure, transporting supplies, or giving extra attention to a nervous new arrival, he's always willing to step in wherever he's needed.
