Palm Beach Pups: Big Dog Ranch Rescue

The work being done at Big Dog Ranch Rescue is life-changing, not just for the dogs at the facility but also the people who work, volunteer, and adopt there.

   The mission behind Big Dog Ranch is simple: “to provide shelter, care and affection to homeless and unwanted dogs of all breeds and to adopt them out to loving human companions.” The no-kill shelter, situated on 28 acres in Wellington, truly puts the dogs first, as evident in the loving care they receive, the food given, and the volunteers who spend their time with the animals. Even the adoption process ensures each dog will go to a loving and open home: Onsite visits match the proper dog to the adoptee, while at-home visits ensure the dog will enter a safe and loving environment. Since opening its doors in 2008, the organization has saved more than 10,000 dogs, finding them loving homes. In fact, the big in Big Dog is of no consequence: it is currently the largest no-kill dog rescue in southeastern U.S.

   If dog ownership is something that you have always wanted to take on, but still gives you a little fright, try volunteering at Big Dog Rescue to get your feet wet. From walking and playing with the animals on the property to fostering, making home and vet checks, or even marketing and manning events, the time spent with the dogs will not only improve their overall health and happiness, but also yours. And you never know, all that time hanging out with the dogs just might lead you to finding your new best friend. For information about volunteering, click here.

   In the latest news, Big Dog Ranch Rescue is growing. The nonprofit has received the go-ahead to build a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility in Loxahatchee Groves. The 55,000-suqare-foot facility will sit on 33 acres and include 100 12-foot-by-12-foot climate-controlled rooms for the pups to cohabitate, play yards with shade trees and pools, and plenty of open spaces for the dogs to run and play. There are also plans for a visitor/adoption center, a senior sanctuary for older dogs to live out their lives in peace, and space for community outreach programs, allowing the organization to provide educational programs, affordable veterinary care, and obedience training to name a few. And for those incoming dogs that might need some time recuperate, either from illness, maltreatment, or just adjustment to being in a new place, a recovery area will allow them to acclimate and regain their strength before joining the other resident pups. A capital campaign is currently underway to help raise funds for the projected $5 million project, which will be built in three phases, with a hopeful grand opening in March of next year.

• Visit bdrr.org for more information about adopting, volunteering, or donating. Any act is greatly appreciated—the wagging tail says so. 

Photos courtesy of Big Dog Ranch Rescue.