REGAN GOINS (Co-Founder and Board President)

Regan's journey into animal welfare began on a small farm in Marysville, OH, where she developed a deep connection to animals from an early age. After college, she found her calling in helping dogs, sparked by a tan and white pit bull named Rocket who was at risk of euthanasia due to behavioral issues. Regan began fostering Rocket from the Austin Animal Center, where she subsequently started working as a kennel attendant.

Her passion for helping animals grew, particularly in understanding behaviorally challenged dogs. Regan is a trained Dogs Playing For Life playgroup handler, finding that she learns the most about dogs through interactive playgroups. After her tenure at the Austin Animal Center, Regan joined Austin Pets Alive!, a leading No-Kill rescue organization. During her time there, she advanced the dog foster program and became a prominent figure in the No-Kill movement, conducting apprenticeships nationwide for Maddie’s Fund and American Pets Alive!.

Regan returned to Ohio after the pandemic to be closer to her family. She and her husband, Joey, share their home with three rescued pit bulls, two of whom were saved from euthanasia. Regan is eager to share the innovative training she has received with the pets of Ohio and to create their greatest "Rescue Team."

JAMIE THORNHILL (Co-Founder and Board Secretary)

Animal welfare has been a lifelong passion for Jamie Thornhill, one that continues to grow with each new experience. Raised in Texas, where encountering stray dogs is a daily occurrence, Jamie's early exposure to the plight of homeless animals ignited a fervent dedication to their care and well-being.

During her college years, Jamie dedicated her time to volunteering at the local animal shelter, where her initial path in human medicine took a profound turn towards animal welfare. This pivotal shift led her to work alongside some of the industry's most respected leaders and organizations, including Best Friends Animal Society, American Pets Alive, and Dogs Playing For Life.

Jamie’s contributions to the field have been recognized in various forums, including podcasts such as Animal Farm Foundation and Rescued by a Dog, where she has shared her insights and experiences. Her professional journey is marked by a commitment to growth and learning, both for herself and for the communities she serves.

With a clear vision and unwavering determination, Jamie’s goal has always been to establish a rescue in an area most in need. She is passionate about helping shelters expand their No-Kill capabilities, enhancing resources, and spreading knowledge about canine behavior and handling. Jamie is thrilled to be taking this significant step and looks forward to building and growing a dedicated team to further PORT’s mission.