Located in Loxahatchee, Big Dog Ranch Rescue is a local non-profit that’s making big headlines. The rescue has received national press for their efforts to save the lives of neglected dogs through education and community engagement. When Laruee Simmons founded Big Dog Ranch Rescue, she vowed that no dog should die at a shelter due to time, space, or a treatable medical condition.

Big and small, young and old, healthy or sick, the Big Dog Ranch campus provides state of the art care and gives each dog a home environment that heals body and soul. The minute a dog enters Big Dog Ranch Rescue, they begin the healing process that can’t happen without support from our community.

Since its inception in 2008, Big Dog Ranch has saved the lives of more than 50,000 dogs and has established programs like Big Dog Ranch University where owners can learn proper training techniques that benefit both dogs and their owners by preventing issues before they start. They offer a free class to adopters as a part of their training initiative. “By offering this free class, Big Dog Ranch ensures that new dog owners embark on their journey equipped and informed,” says Simmons. “Dogs that [are well trained] have a higher chance of finding a loving forever home and are less likely to be returned to the shelter.”

Another standout program is the Seniors for Seniors initiative that addresses one of the most at-risk categories of canine populations: dogs aged 7 years and older. “The beauty of this program is its recognition of the profound healing and companionship that senior humans and dogs can off each other,” says Simmons, “It’s a testament to the idea that it’s never too late for second changes.” This volunteer-supported program matches senior dogs with senior citizens for adoption, providing welcome companionship for both pet and owner. The program also provides visitation at assisted living facilities to make a difference in the lives of deserving dogs and the people they touch.