Today, we’re excited to speak with Rick Haaland, an animal rescuer and advocate who is the Pets for Life community outreach manager for the Leech Lake Tribal Police. 

Rick shares the story of the most memorable dog of his childhood, a stray that showed up one day and never left. Even when Rick spent the summer with his grandparents, Drifter, unwilling to be left behind, walked two days to reunite with him.

A lifelong animal lover, Rick only came to animal rescue after 40 years in various jobs and as a small business owner. Through Pets for Life, he helps Leech Lake pet owners to keep their animals healthy with access to affordable vet care. This also includes the future building of a Leech Lake Animal Wellness Center to address the lack of nearby veterinarian services.

Rick is currently 5th district commissioner and Board Chair for Cass County. He and his family share their home with three dogs and one cat.