About Us
Meet Harley (A Beautiful Glimpse Behind Our Name)
Life is Golden. Harley's Hounds, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization dedicated to neglected animals throughout the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas. Our mission was inspired by our late Golden Retriever, Harley Ray. He had a beautiful life and all who knew him, loved him. We believe every animal deserves that same chance and are working our tails off to make him proud.
What began as a small grassroots effort in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas has grown into a thriving organization dedicated to saving and improving the lives of countless animals in our path. Our foster based organization is rippling change throughout the Rio Grande Valley.
Mission and Impact
- Community education to encourage responsible pet ownership and the importance of vaccines, spay and neuter.
- Fundraise to provide community resources to get dogs off the streets and into a healthy, loving home environment.
- Create a healthy and stable pathway towards foster/adoption.
About the team
Meet Jess Cantu, Founder/President
Jess moved to the Rio Grande Valley in 2021 and just days later found herself rescuing her first street dog in San Benito, TX. From that moment on, she’s been driven by the belief that every street dog is simply waiting for their dream life— on a couch, in a home, and deeply loved.
What began with fostering quickly grew into a mission. She recognized the urgent need for animal welfare reform in the Valley and has since built connections with rescue organizations across the country.
Today, she’s dedicated to creating lasting change through community partnerships that ensure animals receive quality care and find the loving homes they deserve. Her greatest passion is bringing people together for a cause that matters—and there’s just one rule when you're around her: You must love dogs!
Meet the Board of directors
Amy Kozak
Heather Boschke
Heather Boschke
Amy, a lifelong dog lover, was introduced to animal rescue after Hurricane Harvey in 2017 when she fostered her first dog as shelters overflowed. Inspired by the experience, she eagerly joined the board of Harley's Hounds to continue helping Texas dogs in need.
With 25 years of business experience, Amy brings skills in marketing, project m
Amy, a lifelong dog lover, was introduced to animal rescue after Hurricane Harvey in 2017 when she fostered her first dog as shelters overflowed. Inspired by the experience, she eagerly joined the board of Harley's Hounds to continue helping Texas dogs in need.
With 25 years of business experience, Amy brings skills in marketing, project management and operations to the organization.
Favorite Quote: "If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went."
Heather Boschke
Heather Boschke
Heather Boschke
Heather is a marketing leader and owner of Vogel Venture, a firm helping small businesses grow. She's also the author and illustrator of the children’s book Little Birdie Buddies of Minnesota and teaches marketing at Metro State.
Heather joined Harley's Hounds' board to help spread awareness and ensure more dogs receive the love and care t
Heather is a marketing leader and owner of Vogel Venture, a firm helping small businesses grow. She's also the author and illustrator of the children’s book Little Birdie Buddies of Minnesota and teaches marketing at Metro State.
Heather joined Harley's Hounds' board to help spread awareness and ensure more dogs receive the love and care they deserve.
Favorite Quote: "Everyone thinks they have the best dog. And none of them are wrong."
Kelle VanBeek
Heather Boschke
Kelle VanBeek
Kelle brings energy, organization, and a hands-on approach to every task. With a background in communications, event planning, and business technology, she transitioned from financial services to her passion for dogs.
She has the unique ability to connect with anyone/everyone and loves traveling and enjoys dog-sitting for friends and fami
Kelle brings energy, organization, and a hands-on approach to every task. With a background in communications, event planning, and business technology, she transitioned from financial services to her passion for dogs.
She has the unique ability to connect with anyone/everyone and loves traveling and enjoys dog-sitting for friends and family.
Favorite Quote: "The world's best antidepressant has four legs, a wagging tail, and comes with unconditional love."