Our Story
4 Paws Dog Rescue of NJ has been dedicated to saving the lives of dogs in need since 2014. We take in stray dogs, owner surrenders, and dogs from over-crowded shelters. We provide them with medical care, behavioral training, and a loving home until they are adopted into their forever families.
Our team of dedicated fosters, volunteers, and staff work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of these dogs. We are committed to finding the perfect home for each and every dog that comes through our doors.
And we have no intention of slowing down.
Bill Tierno
Co-Founder
Bill has been involved in dog rescue since 2007, serving in a variety of organizations and roles. A South Jerseyan by birth, Bill grew up in Berlin NJ (Camden County) and currently resides in Franklin Twp NJ (Gloucester County). Currently working in the Technology field as a Cloud Enablement Expert, Bill’s passion has always been divided between fitness/nutrition and his pet dogs. Now he gets to combine those passions. Bill spends the majority of his spare time educating himself on dog training and behavior as well as dog health and nutrition. Starting 4Paws has been a labor of love. Every dog that comes into the rescue will receive the love, care, and structure needed to be the best version of themselves. Then we work to find each dog a home with a family that will continue to provide the dog all they need to thrive as a beloved family member. Bill and his wife Heather have several dogs of their own and always welcome foster dogs into their home until the right family comes along.
Christina Micarelli
Co-Founder
Christina Micarelli started her career in the dog industry in 2009, working at a local animal shelter while in college. After graduating Rutgers University with a degree in Psychology she was promoted to Behavior & Transport Coordinator. In 2013 Christina left the shelter world to go back to school and become a Certified Dog Trainer. In 2014 she opened Paws & Obey Dog Training. Through her training business she connected with Bill Tierno and they decided to co-found 4 Paws Dog Rescue of NJ! Christina has a passion for animal rescue and works with multiple rescues and shelters through her training business. When she’s not training dogs or working with the rescue, you can catch her on the beach in Brigantine, or at a concert or a music festival!
Heather Tierno
Co-Founder
Heather became involved with rescue in 2013, when she would accompany her husband Bill to dog adoption events and dog evaluations. A South Jersey native, Heather grew up in Cumberland County, along with her many childhood pets. Heather has always had a love for animals and enjoys fostering and helping the dogs find their forever homes. In her spare time Heather enjoys reading, art, and being with family and friends.
