My husband and I have independently rescued dogs and horses periodically over the past decade as time and finances permitted. The number of animals we were able to help was nowhere near the amount helped by Crystal but because of our own experiences, I know firsthand the difficulties which come with rescue work. I also know I couldn't do what Crystal does on a full-time basis. She selflessly offers assistance to others and has extended this to myself in the past when I've had a difficult case to place in the form of offering courtesy postings on her website and help with adoption contracts.
I highly respect the quality care she maintains. She backs her compassion with unwavering commitment towards the animals lucky enough to be accepted into her rescue. The animals in her care receive the best medical care and often times take part in obedience classes while being fostered. She is always honest about the animals' behavior and seeks the best possible home for their needs.
One of the biggest differences I see in Crystal's rescue versus others is the active involvement with the foster parents/foster homes. I've fostered for other rescues and have always been dismayed when after finalizing the adoption, I am no longer given updates on said animal nor even included in the initial adoption process itself. Crystal includes her foster homes and values their input regarding adoptions.
A few years ago, I spoke with Crystal before departing on a flight. I asked if she would help place my animals in the event of my untimely death. I do not know anyone else I'd want to ask that same question to. This is because I know how much Crystal strives to find the very best possible long-term home for those she fosters AND she remains a part of their lives afterwards.
I run my own dog rescue and know how truly hard it is to do it, and do it correctly. Crystal maintains very high standards for herself and her organization. She is knowledgeable and gifted at rehabilitating dogs, and always makes her decisions on what is best for the dog.
She runs a top notch rescue, and has fostered for our rescue as well, and did a beautiful job turning a fearful dog into a well adjusted happy girl ready for a home.
i would not hesitate to recommend an adoption of an animal through her rescue.
Starfish to the Sea is a great multi-species animal rescue in Pennsylvania. Run by an extremely knowledgeable individual, Star focuses on getting animals healthy, fixing behavioral problems and finding animals new, loving homes. The concept is much like the story of "saving one starfish at a time." Star accepts bunnies, guinea pigs, dogs, cats, and even birds! A very reputable and responsible rescue that gives updates on placed animals...so important to donors.
Starfish to the Sea Animal Rescue is a small multi-species animal rescue which fosters animals of all kinds who have been abandoned or surrendered into care. Founded and headed by Crystal Collins, Starfish to the Sea is as successful as any rescue i have ever seen at working with animals with behavioral problems resultant from their previous life experiences. Crystal is a deeply experienced animal handler and trainer whose patience, commitment and compassion combine to bring about profound changes in the lives of the animals that pass through her care. For the animals who come to her without baggage, life at Starfish to the Sea is a joy from start to finish, and these animals appear to pass quickly from foster care to permanent homes. All animals that pass through Starfish to the Sea receive best possible care - both daily maintenance and, when necessary, veterinary, regardless of their issues. This is a truly compassionate and effective small organization which consistently meets its goals of helping, rehabilitating and re-homing its animals.