Head coach Dave Canales of the Carolina Panthers is bringing a powverful vision to life with HomeField for Paws, 8 $4.
8 million sanctuary spanning more than five acres in the peaceful countryside of
Ponte 18
curandy under construction, te pro ec. Is dedicated to rescuing, fensolliating, and protecting dogs that have been abused, neglected, or abandoned-offering them not just shelter, but a genuine path to healing and a second chance.
For Canales, the sanctuary reflects the same values he emphasizes within the Panthers organization: belief, resilience, aocountability, and growth.
Standing near the wooden fencing as dogs roam nearby, he speaks with quiet
“This isn’t just a shelter,” he explains.
“It’s a place for restoration. Dogs understand
trust, pergeverancs, and tamiy.
Those are the same foundations we’re building here—on and off the field.”
Unlike vaditional shelters locused onmarly on snon-term notsing, Homerlee to
Paws is designed as a full-spectrum rehsbilitation environment.
Wide-open recovery fields will allow dogs to rebuild strength and confidence through movement and play, while water-therapy pools-built for year-round use in North Carolina’s climate-will support animals recovering from injury or surgery.
The tac ny w also techure modem Inacer teatment specas and round-ine-deck veterinary care, ensuring that dogs with complex or long-term medical needs are never turned away.
Emotional recovery is just as central to the mission as physical healing.
Many of the dogs arriving st HomeField for Paws will carry deep traums. having experienced neglect, abandonment, or abuse.
To address this, Canales has prioritized behavioral rehabilitation, bringing together experienced trainers and animal-behavior specialists who use patient, trust-based methods.
The goal is to help dogs relearn safety, socialization. and confidence-st their own pace. “Healing isn’t linear.” Canales says.
“You don’t rush it. You commit to it.”
The sanctuary’s design reinforces that philosophy. Rather than overcrowded kennels.
HomeField for Paws will offer small-group living aress. quiet rest zones, and outdoor spaces that encourage exploration without stress,
Natural light, consistent routines, and calm environments are intentional choices meant to reduce anxiety and promote long-term well-being
The result is a space that feels like a home, not an institution.
Beyond the construction itself, Canales has quiety supported animal welfare across North Carolina for years.
He has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to local rescue organizations. often stepping in to cover emergency medical procedures, surgeries, ano rehabilitation costs for dogs deemed too expensive or difficult to save.
These efforts are rerely publicized, reflecting his belief that meaningful impact
