Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Perets.
Hi Erica, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
What started as a day volunteering at a local animal shelter—turned into one of the most defining moments of my life.
As i walked down the long hallway I catched glimpses of the panic in their eyes, I felt their palpable fear, I stomached their audible cries. I knew it had been weeks since they had been on walks, months they’d been in confinement. My anxiety grew with every cage I passed. Cage—after cage— after cage. I then found myself on my knees. I couldn’t catch my breath. I was sure I was going to pass out.
The only thing that was clear in that moment– “I have to get them out.”
What started as one social media post to save one dog, quickly turned to 10, and now, just a year later, 125 dogs and counting saved from euthanasia.
In November 2024, I officially formed RescueMeATL Inc., a nonprofit organization with a mission to empower and mobilize our community using a neighbor-based network to save local shelter animals through education, advocacy, and networking. Along the way, I’ve been joined by two incredible women, Gabrielle Joan and Danna Downs, who have been instrumental in our growth and development. Together, we’ve created something truly impactful, and we’re just getting started.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey has been rewarding, though not without its challenges. We’re facing the uphill battle of Georgia’s pet overpopulation crisis, exacerbated by weak animal protection laws and widespread unregulated breeding. Our small team is deeply committed to creating lasting impact through education and awareness, but it has been a formidable challenge. Despite this, we approach our work with a philosophy of gentle guidance and open communication, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their understanding, feels welcomed and empowered to participate. Through our efforts, we aim to foster a community that not only understands the issues but is also an active part of the solution. Meeting these challenges head-on, we continue to grow stronger and more determined each day.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Our focus is on advocating for shelter dogs who are overlooked or at risk of euthanasia. Our work is about creating awareness and connections. We work tirelessly to give these dogs a voice through social media, outreach, and networking, ensuring they’re seen and hopefully saved. There is ultimately no better feeling than seeing a dog that we werent sure would make it out, leave through the shelter doors and jump into the front seat of a car with their new forever family.
What sets us apart is our hyper-local, community-driven approach. We’ve created a network that empowers people to step up and take action within their neighborhoods. What I’m most excited about is the momentum we’ve built. Knowing that we’ve inspired others to join and take action.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I was always deeply empathetic and drawn to animals. I was the child who would bring home stray dogs. I’ve always felt a strong responsibility for those who can’t speak for themselves, which naturally extended to both animals and people.
I was curious, determined, and maybe a little stubborn when it came to things I cared about. If I set my mind to something, I wouldn’t stop until I figured it out. I’ve also always been someone who feels things deeply, which, while challenging at times, has fueled my passion for advocacy.
That same drive to care for others is what pushed me into the field of medicine, becoming an intensive care unit nurse practitioner. The desire to help in moments of crisis, to provide comfort and solutions when things feel impossible, has shaped both my professional and personal life. Looking back, the empathy, determination, and creativity I had growing up laid the foundation for the work I’m doing today with both RescueMeATL Inc and my career in healthcare.
Contact Info:
- Website: rescuemeatl.org
- Instagram: @rescueme_atl
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/rmatl
