When Nico Hoerner stepped onto the field for the Cubs, fans saw a rising star with lightning reflexes and a bat that could change games. But off the field, Hoerner’s vision extends far beyond baseball—into the hearts of Chicago’s most vulnerable animals. He is building Cubs Canine Haven, a six-acre, $4 million sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating abandoned and abused dogs.
The idea began quietly, shared only with close friends. “I just wanted to help some dogs in need,” Hoerner told friends. But what started as a small personal project has grown into a full-scale initiative attracting volunteers, sponsors, and fans from across Chicago.
Located on the outskirts of the city, the Haven will feature indoor housing for over 50 dogs, full-service veterinary facilities, and sprawling outdoor spaces for exercise, play, and rehabilitation. The goal is simple: no dog should be left behind, no matter their age, injury, or past trauma.
Friends and teammates say Hoerner’s compassion for animals is genuine. Several years ago, he personally fostered a group of stray dogs during a harsh Chicago winter. That experience inspired him to take action on a larger scale.
“This isn’t about baseball stats or endorsements,” one longtime friend explained. “It’s about responsibility and doing something bigger than yourself.”
The sanctuary is designed to be more than just a shelter. Planned features include:
24-hour emergency veterinary care
Warm housing during harsh winter months
Rehabilitation and therapy programs
Volunteer training programs
Community adoption events
With a $4 million budget, donations and sponsorships are helping make the vision tangible, from state-of-the-art veterinary equipment to lush outdoor therapy areas.
Hoerner has quietly supported animal welfare initiatives for years, often funding rescues without fanfare. But Cubs Canine Haven is a public commitment—a statement about what leadership looks like off the field.
One local donor said, “He doesn’t just hit home runs. He knows what we owe to each other. That’s why we trust him with this.”
Beyond rescuing dogs, the Haven is designed as a community center for education and engagement. Plans include:
Partnerships with schools to teach responsible pet ownership
Volunteer programs for teens and young adults
Adoption events and training workshops
The long-term vision: create a model that other cities can replicate, setting a new standard for animal rescue and care.
Support is pouring in. Cubs fans, local businesses, and animal welfare groups have already pledged funds, with hundreds of volunteers signing up to help.
When asked about the ultimate hope for the project, a spokesperson said:
“Our dream is simple: one day, there won’t be abandoned dogs in this city. Not one.”
In a city often defined by hustle, division, and competition, Nico Hoerner’s Cubs Canine Haven is a reminder that every act of kindness creates ripples far beyond its origin—and that even a professional athlete can use fame and fortune to make a lasting impact.
Leave a Reply