MEET OUR TEAM:

Founder & President, Board of Directors

Stephanie has been deeply involved in animal rescue since 2009, driven by her profound passion for helping animals in need. In March 2022, she launched Tailgait Transport & Rescue, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to creating a positive impact. 

Stephanie actively rescues animals from high-kill shelters across multiple states, including Arkansas, Texas, Mississippi, and South Carolina. She devotes her time outside of her current healthcare career tirelessly to help save as many dogs as she can, effectively bridging the gap between regions with differing euthanasia rates. 

At home, Stephanie's compassion extends to her two cherished dogs, both of whom she rescued from the streets of San Antonio. Socks, a senior Great Dane/pit bull mix, and Peanut, a pit-mix, serve as heartwarming examples of her commitment to providing care and love to animals in need. 

Stephanie's commitment goes beyond just engaging in hands-on rescue work; she actively contributes to fundraising efforts as well. As a key member of the Plant Sale and Wine and Whiskers committee, she utilizes her time to increase awareness and support for their cause.  

Despite the challenges, Stephanie remains undeterred. Through Tailgait Transport & Rescue, Stephanie continues to make a difference in the lives of countless animals.

Secretary, Board of Directors

Jen is an integral part of her community, actively engaged in initiatives to enhance the beauty and cleanliness of Manchester's parks and streets. She derives immense satisfaction from collaborative efforts aimed at improvement. In addition to her community involvement, Jen treasures moments spent with her loved ones, immersing herself in activities such as reading, gardening, and crafting. 

However, Jen's deepest passion lies in her love for animals. She has devoted countless hours to volunteering at shelters, fostering profound connections with these creatures. At home, she shares her life with four dogs and two cats, proving a nurturing environment for her furry companions. 

Driven by her enthusiasm for animal welfare, Jen has assumed a leadership role at Tailgait Transport and Rescue, where she eagerly channels her passion into purposeful action. Additionally, Jen spearheads the annual plant sale committee, contributing to its remarkable success, and she plays a pivotal role in the Wine and Whiskers Fundraising committee.

Member, Board of Directors

Karen has cherished the companionship of dogs for decades. Her beloved canine, who passed away in 2012, held a special place in her heart. Unable to replace him, Karen found solace in volunteering at a local shelter. The experience has been eye-opening, fostering deep connections with shelter dogs and igniting her passion for giving back. 

Karen actively participates in fundraising events like the Plant Sale and Wine and Whiskers, where she excels in securing donations and sponsorships. Her commitment and contributions are invaluable to the team, and her presence is a fortunate addition for everyone involved.

Member, Board of Directors

Beth has had a deep love for dogs throughout her life, creating cherished memories with her four-legged companions. Recently, she experienced the heartfelt loss of her beloved 15-year-old family dog, which has motivated her to give back to the canine community in a meaningful way.

While Beth may have limited experience in the rescue community, she is eager to dive in and contribute to the organization’s mission. With a robust background in fundraising, she is excited to apply her skills to help ensure the success and growth of the rescue.

Beth believes in the power of community and collaboration, and she looks forward to working alongside fellow board members and dedicated volunteers to make a positive impact in the lives of dogs in need. Her passion for animal welfare and commitment to creating a better future for rescues will be invaluable assets as she embarks on this new journey.

Through her involvement, Beth aims to not only help find loving homes for dogs but also to raise awareness about the importance of adopting from shelters and rescues. She is ready to embrace this opportunity and is committed to making a difference in the lives of both dogs and their potential forever families.

Member, Board of Directors

Stephanie is a Manchester native and a lifelong lover of animals. A decorated equestrian, she spent many years on the New Hampshire horse show circuit, winning hundreds of ribbons and trophies along the way.

Stephanie left New Hampshire in 1991 and lived in Connecticut and the Berkshires of western Massachusetts for many years while raising her two children. During that time she rescued a dog named Hush Puppy and her interest in animal rescue began. Her beloved Hush Puppy passed away in January of 2015 leaving a hole in her heart and home.

After a successful career in real estate and community action, she returned to her hometown of Manchester and soon after rescued a pitbull mix named Stella. Together they can be seen each day walking through their neighborhood and stopping to chat with friends along the way. Stella’s exuberance and loving ways have helped teach the neighborhood not to judge dogs based on their looks or breed.

Stephanie is passionate about animals and believes strongly that all animals deserve respect, dignity, and a loving home. She truly believes in the saying “the ones we rescue, rescue us.”  She looks forward to being a strong advocate in making a difference in the lives of dogs and their people. 

Transport & Medical Care Coordinator 

Sandy’s love for dogs started as a young girl. She grew up knowing dogs would be a constant part of her life. While in college she went to the local dog pound (as they were called back then) and adopted her first dog, a loving mutt she named Tiba. She has never been without a dog since, and raised her four sons knowing the companionship of a family dog.

Sandy retired early from the corporate world and her career as an HR professional. Wanting to do more for animal welfare she then joined a local animal shelter and spent the subsequent nine years helping in a variety of capacities including operational management roles at Manchester Animal Shelter and Upper Valley Human Society. Now, Sandy volunteers her time helping smaller rescue organizations with the coordination of dog transports from overcrowded southern shelters up to NH. Helping dogs find loving homes is a great source of joy. 

Together with her husband and their own three dogs, Sandy frequently fosters dogs while they are waiting to find their forever home. 

Volunteer, Foster & Adoption Coordinator

Jamie has spent the past ten years deeply involved in animal rescue, dedicating her time, heart, and energy to helping both dogs and cats find safety, healing, and loving homes. Her journey began with a single foster pet and quickly grew into a lifelong passion for advocating for animals who are often overlooked—those who need extra patience, understanding, and a chance to show who they truly are.

Today, Jamie proudly serves as Tailgait’s volunteer, foster, and adoption coordinator. In this role, she supports new fosters, guides adopters through the process of finding their perfect match, and ensures that every animal receives the individualized care they deserve. She is known for her calm presence, her ability to see potential in even the most timid animals, and her unwavering belief that every pet has a story worth fighting for.

Beyond her rescue work, Jamie’s world is filled with family and furry companions. She enjoys spending time with her husband and their three kids, who share her love for animals and often jump in to help with fosters. At home, she is surrounded by her own beloved pets—three dogs (including Molly, a proud Tailgait alum) and two cats who keep life lively and full of love.

Jamie’s long-term dream is to open her own rescue in honor of her dog Maxi, who passed away at 13 and continues to inspire her every day. Maxi’s memory fuels her commitment to giving animals a second chance and building a rescue community rooted in compassion, education, and hope.