HEARTWARMING STORY: Garrett Crochet Launches "Puppy Haven" Sanctuary for Stray Dogs in Boston
BOSTON — In a world where athletes are often defined by their on-field performances, Boston Red Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet is making headlines for something far more impactful than strikeouts or highlight plays: his heartfelt commitment to helping stray dogs.
On September 29, Crochet opened the doors of “Puppy Haven,” a $5 million sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating homeless dogs in Boston. The sanctuary aims to provide stray dogs with the care, shelter, and love they desperately need. "There are so many dogs left on the streets, uncared for, and without hope," Crochet said during the grand opening. "They deserve to be protected, healed, and given a home."
Located in the heart of the city, Puppy Haven will offer a safe haven for dogs, featuring top-tier facilities including 24/7 veterinary services, a spay/neuter program, and recovery areas where dogs can heal both physically and emotionally. The sanctuary is designed to create a safe environment for animals in need, offering not only shelter but the hope of finding a loving family.
The mission of Puppy Haven goes beyond just providing shelter. Crochet has vowed to ensure the dogs receive proper medical attention, socialization, and rehabilitation before being rehomed. “This isn’t just about saving lives; it’s about restoring dignity to these animals. They deserve to feel loved and wanted,” Crochet said, visibly emotional during the opening ceremony.
While the sanctuary was built with a significant investment, the real value lies in the difference it will make in the lives of countless stray dogs. The initiative is a testament to Crochet’s deep compassion and commitment to his community. “I’ve always believed in using my platform for good,” he continued. “The biggest victory I can have isn’t in a game, it’s in seeing these little creatures find hope again.”
The Puppy Haven sanctuary has already received overwhelming support from animal lovers across Boston and beyond. The local community, including fellow Red Sox players and fans, have rallied behind the cause, donating funds, supplies, and their time. The grand opening event also featured a series of adoption drives and partnerships with local animal rescue groups, helping to spread awareness of the sanctuary’s mission.
Crochet is no stranger to giving back, having been involved in various charitable endeavors over the years. However, this new chapter in his life marks a significant turning point as he continues to channel his passion for helping those in need — both human and animal alike.
“The work is just beginning,” Crochet added. “This is just the start. There are so many more animals who need us, and I plan on doing everything I can to make sure they get the care and love they deserve.”
As Puppy Haven opens its doors, Crochet has set an example that transcends sports. In a world often focused on personal achievements and trophies, Crochet has shown that the true victories lie in making a real, lasting difference in the lives of others. For the strays of Boston, the real win is the hope of a second chance, and Garrett Crochet is leading the way to that brighter future.
Vikings’ Ryan Kelly Faces Calls to Retire Amid Ongoing Concussion Concerns
Minnesota Vikings starting center Ryan Kelly is at a career crossroads amid his 10th season in the NFL that could have him considering hanging it up for good.
Signed to a two-year, $18 million deal as part of the team’s overhaul of the offensive line in the offseason, Kelly sustained his second concussion in three games during a Week 4 against the
But his history with concussions is much more than this season. Since the 2023 season, Kelly has been diagnosed with five concussions.
Asked how many concussions he’s had in his entire playing career after his second concussion during the 2023 season, Kelly said “
Many Vikings observers have expressed concern that Kelly needs to consider his long-term health and consider retirement, including Purple Insider’s Matthew Coller who made a strong plea on his postgame show after the Steelers loss.
“He just had a concussion two weeks ago. I am not a doctor, I am not evaluating him, I am not his family member. Retire,” Coller said. “This has got to be it. One of the best players of the decade. Phenomenal center. The games he was in, I was so impressed… Talked to him a handful of times. Incredibly smart dude, incredibly impessive person. Every person you talk to loves Ryan Kelly. Retire.”
Vikings C Ryan Kelly Addresses Potential Retirement After Concussion History With Colts
During the 2023 season, Kelly addressed the concerns with his health after he was diagnosed with a second concussion in Week 12 of the
“Yeah, you become 30 and you start thinking about things,’’ Kelly said in December 2023. “If it’s between playing football and when I’m 60 having dementia and all these things you see that can come from playing football, of course I’m going to look after myself and my family.
“It’s hard seeing some of these (retired) guys now. You have to be aware of your quality of life later.’’
The No. 18 overall pick of the 2016 draft, Kelly sustained his first concussion as a pro during the 2017 season and missed five games due to the head injury. The other two concussions he sustained during the 2023 season weren’t enough to keep him from earning his fourth Pro Bowl nod — but his livelihood after football is in jeopardy if he suffers any more head trauma.
“It certainly puts a seed of doubt in your mind,’’ Kelly said after his second concussion in 2023. “It’s a violent game and you’ve been playing it for a long time. Things add up.
“You can replace a knee and you can replace a hip,’’ “You’re not replacing your brain. I’ll try to play the game as long as I can. I’ll go out there and give everything I’ve got. If ultimately I have more concussions, I’ll make a decision then, whatever that is.’’
Kevin O’Connell Addresses Ryan Kelly’s Future
The situation with Kelly is looking dire, and head coach Kevin O’Connell did not shrug off the concerns facing the Pro Bowl center.
“The health of our players is always the beginning, the end, and the middle of that conversation,” O’Connell said in his postgame news conference.
“So we’ll totally defer to the doctors and we’ll defer to the protocol. And then ultimately, we’re gonna want to make sure Ryan’s in a good place. That’s not anything I particularly ever want to mess around with, so we’ll be smart. Definitely not my lane to weigh in on those things until we get to that place.”
