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About Sheriff's H.E.A.R.T.
Sheriff’s H.E.A.R.T. (Humane Emergency Animal Rescue Team) is a Sheriff’s Office–operated, dispatch-deployable animal emergency response program serving Nevada County and assisting statewide missions under California’s emergency management frameworks.
Unlike independent animal rescues, HEART is founded and operationally controlled by the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, ensuring direct supervision, accountability, and seamless integration into public-safety operations.
HEART volunteers are activated through the Sheriff’s dispatch call center, making HEART one of the only animal evacuation resources in California capable of deployment during the first operational period of a wildfire, evacuation, or search incident.
The program is staffed entirely by trained Disaster Service Worker (DSW) volunteers who operate under SEMS (Standardized Emergency Management System) and ICS (Incident Command System) in coordination with law enforcement, fire, Animal Control, Emergency Operations Centers, and other public-safety agencies.
Become a Volunteer
Ready to Help Animals When It Matters Most?
Sheriff’s HEART volunteers play a critical role in protecting animals and supporting communities during disasters. Whether you’re caring for animals in a shelter, helping transport them to safety, or supporting field teams, your contribution matters.
Volunteer Applications are Open for 2026!
Application Closing Date: February 15th, 2026
Interview Date: February 26th, 2026
HEART Officer Adams giving oxygen to a dog named 'Honeybear' who was rescued during a HEART deployment.
The HEART Board
Stefanie Geckler
President
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Dr. Elaine Krieg
Board Member
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Katie Adams
Vice President
Julia Roegiers
Board Member
Mitch Boothe
Board Member
Cassandra Triplett
Board Member
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Lt. Matthew Waite-McGogh
Board Member
Nicole Beltran
Advisor to Sheriff's HEART Board of Directors
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Lisa Smith
Advisor to Sheriff's HEART Board of Directors
HEART in the News
Published on December 18, 2025 01:18PM EST
Over 200 Animals Rescued in Dramatic 2-Day Extraction In California After Suspected Animal Abuse (Exclusive)
People Magazine
By Moná Thomas
"Authorities rescued over. 200 animals from a private property in Grass Valley, Calif., following suspicion of mistreatment and neglect
The property owner allegedly claimed he wanted to open an animal rescue on the land, where officials found 14 dead animals
Authorities seized 215 live animals, including sheep, goats, horses, pigs, calves, chickens, dogs, a cat, and a pony..."
Photo: Sheriff’s HEART President and Animal Control Officer Stefanie Geckler safely transports a sick sheep following the seizure of over 200 animals in Nevada County.
Support HEART: Donate Today
We rely on community donations to sustain and expand our mission of lifesaving animal emergency response.
Sheriff’s HEART is a
501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
Tax ID (EIN) 93-2769904
HEART volunteers helping HEART Veterinarian Dr. Elaine Krieg complete an animal needs assessment
Learn More About HEART
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950 Maidu Ave.
Nevada City, CA 95959