November Philanthropy Spotlight: Big Dog Ranch Rescue

When I first started highlighting my favorite charities back in September I was very eager to raise awareness for some of my favorite places to give back and didn't stop to think about timing. In hindsight, I wish I had thought a bit more purposefully about the timing of each charity highlight, but I didn't, so I will continue on the path I chose. This month I'm excited to share my love for Big Dog Ranch Rescue in Florida. I first learned about BDRR when I was in a mall (of all places!) and saw a puppy through a store window. Obviously my Mom and I went in, fell in love with the puppy and learned all about BDRR. 

Big Dog Ranch Rescue is the largest no kill, cage free dog rescue in the United States and has saved countless dog's lives. To date they have helped save over 37,000 dogs and united dogs with families, creating forever friends. You may already be familiar with BDRR because of the nationwide attention they received when they rescued a dog, aptly named Miracle, weeks after Hurricane Dorian. Most recently, Big Dog Ranch Rescue helped fund an initiative to save hundreds of dogs in Puerto Rico and are continuing to help them. These are just two of many remarkable stories you hear about them! 

At the beginning of the pandemic, like almost every charity, they faced a huge gap in funding. Despite the massive challenges, they prevailed and are continuing to save lives as well as starting programs to keep dogs with their current owners. The founder of Big Dog Ranch Rescue, Lauree Simmons, even helped bring into effect a law making animal abuse a federal crime.  I love that they even help set adoptions up for success with dog training and other veterinary programs. I encourage and ask you to donate to such a wonderful cause. Whether they are working tirelessly to save dogs or focusing on keeping dogs with their current owners, Big Dog Ranch Rescue is there to support!