Heather O. Hayes

Director of Stewardship & Communications

Heather’s professional career began in architecture after graduating from the College of Design at NC State University, but her lifelong devotion to helping animals led to finding her passion and purpose in animal welfare. As a longtime admirer of Grey Muzzle, Heather is grateful and excited to be part of the team, championing the cause nearest and dearest to her heart—helping senior pets thrive—using storytelling and design to inspire action and save lives. Prior to joining The Grey Muzzle Organization, Heather spent nearly a decade as the Marketing Manager for Asheville Humane Society, helping thousands of animals in need find their way home.

Heather has adopted many senior Chihuahuas (including Jay-Z the Chi, her first senior love!), and several are still enjoying their golden years in their forever “retirement home.” She also fosters pets in need (senior dogs, kittens, and once even a feral hamster) and bottle-feeds orphaned fawns for a wildlife rehab organization. Heather, her husband, Joel, and their menagerie of rescued pets live in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina.