Our Founder
Hi, I’m Elyse Lester — founder of Dogs 4 U, Inc., professional dog cuddler, poop-cleaning expert, and lifelong animal lover.
My husband Phil and I have been married for 14 years, and we share life with our awesome 23-year-old son, Jonathan. Now that we’re empty nesters (unless you count the four-legged chaos), we decided to take our love for dogs to the next level and launch a foster-based rescue—because, apparently, we don’t know how to sit still.
Over the years, we’ve fostered countless dogs and puppies. That means hundreds of snuggles, baths, midnight potty breaks, and heart-melting goodbyes. We’ve opened our home—and occasionally sacrificed our furniture and sanity—for everything from fragile newborn pups to dignified seniors with a little gray in their whiskers. We have a soft spot for the tough cases: the medical needs, the bottle babies, the overlooked seniors. (Basically, if they need a little extra love, we’re all in.) To see some of our previous fosters click here.
Dogs 4 U, Inc. was built from passion, persistence, and a bit of dog hair in every corner of our lives. Our mission is simple: save lives, one wagging tail at a time. Whether you’re here to foster, adopt, donate, or just follow our journey—we’re so glad you found us. Welcome to the pack.
Who Are Our Fosters & Furever Families?
At Dogs 4 U, our fosters and adopters are nothing short of heroes. Whether you’re opening your home temporarily or forever, you’re changing a life—and we’re here for it with a happy dance and a tail wag (from us and the dog).
Our fosters are compassionate, committed, and a little bit crazy—in the best way. They’re the kind of people who’ll sleep next to a crate at 2 a.m. to soothe a scared pup, spend hours coaxing a shy senior out of their shell, or learn to bottle-feed a neonate on no sleep and lots of coffee. You don’t need a mansion or a magic touch—just a heart big enough to welcome a dog in need and the willingness to be part of something meaningful.
Our adopters are just as special. They see beyond the past and believe in fresh starts. They understand that rescue dogs might come with quirks, but also with infinite love, loyalty, and tail-wagging gratitude. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pup parent, we’ll match you with a dog who fits your life, your vibe, and your couch space.
Ready to be a hero? Fill out our quick foster application and let’s find your first (or next!) foster pup:
Our Rescue Circle: Friends, Funders & Fam
Every great rescue has a village behind it—and ours is made up of absolute rockstars.
Whether you donate, share our posts, help transport pups, or simply cheer us on from the sidelines, you’re part of the Dogs 4 U fam. You’re the reason we can say yes to the urgent intake, yes to the special medical case, and yes to giving dogs the second chance they deserve.
Our funders (aka our angels in hoodies and dog hair) keep the lights on, the vet bills paid, and the kibble bowls full. Every dollar makes a difference—and we do a happy dance for every one.
Our friends share our mission and help spread the word. From social media shares to encouraging texts at midnight, your support reminds us we’re not in this alone.
And our family—well, that’s all of you. If you’ve loved a foster dog, supported our mission, or just believe in what we do, you’re family now. No take-backs.
Want to be part of the magic? Your support—big or small—helps us save lives.
Thank you for being part of our pack. We truly couldn’t do it without you.