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HURRICANE AND DISASTER RELIEF
Big Dog Ranch Rescue travels to areas affected by disasters to bring much needed supplies, to save abandoned dogs, and in some cases reunite pet owners with their furry family members.



An Earth Day Miracle
Earth came into our care after being surrendered due to severe medical concerns. From the moment she arrived, it was clear she was critically ill, extremely underweight, anemic, and in urgent need of intensive medical intervention. Our veterinary team immediately began around-the-clock care. Earth was placed on multiple medications, including steroids, antibiotics, and continuous rate infusion (CRI) insulin, while receiving constant monitoring and advanced diagnostics. Every


WPBF to the Rescue: Helping animals find forever homes
Cheyenne is this week's Pet of the Week. She is available at Big Dog Ranch Rescue. READ MORE: https://www.wpbf.com/article/wpbf-to-the-rescue-helping-animals-find-forever-homes-1762953340-1763559441-1764163252-1765373546-1765977368-1766583758-1767190960-1768398151-1769606628-1770818696-1771423923-1772025359-1772628220-1773230966-1774440916-1775045782-1776255207/71024526


The Rescue Behind the "Rescue"
How We Helped Save 80 Dogs' Lives from the Largest Rescue Operation in California One of the largest animal rescue operations in recent U.S. history unfolded in Lake Hughes, California after authorities uncovered a hoarding situation involving an individual, Christine De Andra, who was posing as an animal rescue under the name “Rock N Pawz Rescue.” More than 300 dogs and cats were discovered living in extreme overcrowding and unsanitary conditions. Many were sick, malnourishe


Every Scar Tells a Story & This One Ends in Love
We rescued Cinnamon in June 2025, and for nearly a year, she was in our care, healing from a past no dog should ever endure. Her previous owner had cruelly poured acid on her back, leaving her with severe chemical burns, a horrific act of cruelty. Those scars would remain for life, a permanent mark of the suffering she survived. But she was safe with us, and time after time, she waited at the ranch for her forever person, hoping one day someone would see past her scars and r


Celebrities help raise money at Big Dog rescue event at Mar-a-Lago
TV star Katherine Heigl and Jeanine Pirro among celebrities at Big Dog Rescue Ranch fundraising weekend at Mar-a-Lago. READ MORE: https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/news/local/wellington/2026/03/09/lara-trump-katherine-heigl-jeanine-pirro-big-dog-ranch-rescue-mar-a-lago/89063267007/


A Paw-fect Stop: Miss America Visits Big Dog Ranch Rescue
During her year of service, Miss America 2026 Cassie Donegan champions initiatives that uplift communities across the country—from Alaska to Maine. But few causes are closer to her heart than caring for animals. During a recent visit to West Palm Beach, Florida, the proud dog owner made a special stop at Big Dog Ranch Rescue, the nation’s largest cage-free, no-kill dog rescue. Read More: https://missamerica.org/2026/03/10/a-paw-fect-stop-miss-america-visits-big-dog-ranch-resc


Big Dog Ranch Rescue Raises $5.5 Million at Star-Studded Wine, Women & Shoes Gala in Palm Beach
Philanthropy, fashion, and a shared love for animals came together in extraordinary fashion as Big Dog Ranch Rescue hosted its annual Wine, Women & Shoes fundraising weekend in Palm Beach, drawing more than 2,000 guests and raising a record-breaking $5.5 million to support lifesaving rescue efforts for dogs across the United States. The glamorous three-day event took place at the iconic Mar-a-Lago Club, where supporters, philanthropists, celebrities, and animal advocates ga


Fashion, philanthropy and furry friends take over Mar-a-Lago for dog fundraiser
PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — Celebrities and canines took center stage at The Mar-a-Lago Club as actress and animal advocate Katherine Heigl and “Dog Whisperer” Ceasar Millan joined a high-profile fundraiser for rescue dogs. READ MORE: https://www.wpbf.com/article/florida-big-dog-ranch-rescue-raises-record-5-million-at-mar-a-lago/70668638


Big Dog Ranch Rescue opens Patriot Pet Lodge to triple support for veterans
LOXAHATCHEE, Fla. (CBS12) — Big Dog Ranch Rescue celebrated a major milestone in veteran support and animal welfare on Monday with the opening of the Patriot Pet Lodge. READ MORE: https://cbs12.com/news/local/big-dog-ranch-rescue-opens-patriot-pet-lodge-to-triple-support-for-veterans-service-dogs-boarding-military-okeechobee-boulevard-loxahatchee-january-19-2026


88 German Shepherds saved, dozens sent to Florida after FBI raid at Texas breeding ranch
https://cbs12.com/news/local/88-german-shepherds-sent-to-florida-as-fbi-raid-uncovers-cruelty-at-texas-breeding-ranch-south-florida-palm-beach-county-news-loxahatchee-big-dog-ranch-rescue-adoption-fostering-january-13-2026


100+ Shepherds Saved from the Hands of a Monster
On December 29, Big Dog Ranch Rescue was alerted to extreme animal cruelty at an East Texas breeding operation known as Giant German Shepherd Ranch, owned by Kristine Hicks. We acted immediately. Because Big Dog Ranch Rescue formed a new Federal Animal Cruelty Task Force in December, this case was elevated without delay to the highest levels of government. That task force includes U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, Lara Trump, Secretary


Twisty's Halloween Miracle
When 5-year-old Twisty arrived at Big Dog Ranch Rescue, her story was nearly over before it had a chance to begin. Rescued from Broward County Animal Care and Control moments before she was set to be euthanized , this sweet Bulldog came to us in devastating condition, with her lower jaw having been severely degloved , leaving her in unimaginable pain. Despite everything she had endured, Twisty’s eyes still held a spark, a quiet plea for help, and a will to survive. Our medica


One Tough Chip: Dorito's Story
Not many chips have taken a journey quite like our beloved Dorito. At just five months old, this stunning Bluetick Coonhound was rescued from Morgan County, Georgia, where she was deemed a lost cause due to her severe heart conditions. But Big Dog Ranch Rescue saw her potential and immediately stepped in, ensuring she made it to safety. Her journey led her to our Alabama campus before she finally arrived at our Ranch here in Florida, where she’s been given a second chance at


Rocky's Road to Recovery
Even though he is only 5 months old, Rocky's journey has definitely been rocky. This beautiful pup was rescued by Big Dog Ranch Rescue back in December from the streets of Puerto Rico. While we may never know the full extent of what he endured, his little body speaks volumes—each scar and fracture a testament to the mountains he’s already climbed. As soon as Rocky arrived on our Florida campus, our medical team quickly discovered that he had suffered severe fractures in his h


A New Life for Lucielle
When Lucielle 's owner passed away, her world was turned upside down. Left outside without her puppies, she struggled to survive on her own. By the time a neighbor noticed and brought her to us, Lucielle was scared, overwhelmed, and covered in scars and open wounds from fights with other dogs. As if that weren't enough, she was also diagnosed with heartworms, a dangerous illness requiring intensive treatment. Her story could have ended there, but fate had other plans. A lovin


Mia's Mission to Start a New Chapter
This beautiful Belgian Malinois, Mia, was rescued from the streets of Thailand and brought to Big Dog Ranch Rescue, where her life finally took a turn toward hope. When she first arrived, Mia carried herself with the confidence of a protector, but behind that proud stance was the shadow of a difficult past. Like many working breeds without the right guidance, she had developed habits to survive in an unpredictable world. She was smart, determined, and fiercely loyal—qualities


Tiny Tim’s BIG Transformation
When Tiny Tim was found wandering the streets of Miami last December, he was barely clinging to life. Emaciated and all skin and bones, he had clearly gone a long time without proper food, shelter, or care. Weak and exhausted, he was brought to Big Dog Ranch Rescue. But Tiny Tim is a fighter. With love, patience, and the expert care of our veterinary team, he began to gain weight, regain strength, and, most importantly, hope. Day by day, his spirit returned. And now, he’s a


Muffin's Miracle
Muffin arrived from Miami-Dade with a shattered front leg and a silent story of suffering. His injury couldn’t be repaired, an d the only option was to remove the damaged leg. As if that were n’t enough, he was also heartworm positive—facing two major battles before he could even begin to heal. Recovery was slow and full of challenges. Muffin had to learn how to walk—and live—on three legs while also undergoing heartworm treatment. But through every hurdle, he remained gentl


When Love Found Lovebug
Lovebug was discovered wandering the streets of Miami—starving, exhausted, and completely alone. Her body was skin and bones. Her eyes, heavy with fatigue. And yet, when our team gently approached her, she wagged her tail. That simple gesture—so full of hope in the face of suffering—was the first miracle. We brought her to Big Dog Ranch Rescue and named her Lovebug. With time, safety, and love, her spirit began to shine. The frail street dog transformed into a joyful, affect


Bells of Hope
When Bells arrived at Big Dog Ranch Rescue on May 30, 2025, she carried with her the kind of story that stops you in your tracks. Found in Miami after being struck by a car, she came to us injured, unsure, and without anyone to call her own. In those first quiet moments, wrapped in blankets and surrounded by the gentle hands of our medical team, we saw not just a dog in need—but a soul still full of trust, gentleness, and grace Bells is a beautiful 5-year-old Belgian Malinois


14 severely-matted doodle dogs rescued by Big Dog Ranch from breeder in Alabama
https://www.wptv.com/news/palm-beach-county/14-severely-matted-doodle-dogs-rescued-by-big-dog-ranch-from-breeder-in-alabama


Daisy's Long Road to Love
Daisy came to us under heartbreaking circumstances. A brave bystander stepped in after witnessing three teenagers attempting to hang this sweet girl from a tree with a rope around her neck. We’ll never truly know what Daisy endured before that moment, but when we got the call, we didn’t hesitate. For two long years, Daisy remained at the ranch. She was terrified of everyone, recoiled at human touch, and shut down when anyone tried to show her love. Her trauma ran deep, and we


Wheels, Willpower, and a Little Bit of Magic
Batty was 90 just hours away from being euthanized—his life hanging by a thread at Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control—when Big Dog Ranch Rescue’s founder, Lauree Simmons herself, made a life-changing rescue trip that changed everything. We stepped in to save this little guy and rushed him to safety. Paralyzed in his back legs and struggling to breathe, he was in critical condition. At Big Dog Ranch, we stabilized him and kept him on oxygen while coordinating with surg


Velcro: Sticking to Love After Trauma
Velcro came to us with deep physical and emotional scars. Severe burns covered his face and nose, and the damage took the sight from one of his eyes. His injuries told a story of pain and trauma—but Velcro never let that define him. The moment someone reached out with a gentle touch, he leaned right in. It was like he’d been waiting for kindness all along. That’s how he got his name—Velcro. Once he connects with you, he sticks close, offering quiet comfort and a steady prese


The Three Tiny Survivors
Pirata, Nano, and Chispa —two Chihuahuas and a Rat Terrier, were victims of one of the most heartbreaking abuse cases we encountered this year. These three tiny dogs had already suffered from long-term neglect when they were subjected to a horrifying act of cruelty: tied behind a pickup truck and dragged down the road. A witness captured the horrific act on video, leading to the arrest of the man responsible. But the damage had already been done. Pirata was living in our S


To the Dog Dads Who Make a Difference
This Father’s Day, on behalf of Big Dog Ranch, we want to thank all the men who have stepped up to help our dogs—whether through...


Leggy's New Home
At our most recent event, the Cheney Brothers Food Show, our BDRR team brought along some of our adoptable dogs— Leggy , a two-year-old, three-legged hound mix, was one of them. Leggy came to Big Dog Ranch from Redlands, a sadly well-known dog dumping ground in South Florida. Since her arrival, she has shown nothing but kindness, strength, and love to our entire team and volunteers. Finally, it was her time to shine. At the show, she caught the eye of Matt Elmore, who was imm


Karley is looking for her Forever Home
https://www.wpbf.com/article/karley-is-looking-for-her-forever-home/64963240


Big Dog Ranch Rescue treating giant schnauzer found suffering from starvation in Broward County
https://www.wptv.com/news/palm-beach-county/big-dog-ranch-rescue-treating-giant-schnauzer-found-suffering-from-starvation-in-broward-county


Big Dog Ranch Rescue seeking loving home for a 5-year-old American Bulldog
https://www.wpbf.com/article/big-dog-ranch-rescue-seeking-loving-home-for-a-5-year-old-american-bulldog/64496499


How Big Dog Ranch Rescue is highlighting the importance of adoption and fostering
https://www.wptv.com/lifestyle/pets/how-big-dog-ranch-rescue-is-highlighting-the-importance-of-adoption-and-fostering


Dog once found with duct tape around his mouth now ready for adoption, organization says
https://www.wpbf.com/article/dog-duct-tape-mouth-adoption/64837864


Donald Trump & Elon Musk Raise $4.3M for Big Dog Ranch Rescue at Mar-a-Lago
https://hauteliving.com/2025/03/donald-trump-elon-musk-raise-4-3m-for-big-dog-ranch-rescue-at-mar-a-lago/765584/


Governor DeSantis signs two Animal Rights Bills at Big Dog Ranch Rescue
LOCAL 10 https://www.local10.com/news/florida/2025/05/28/gov-desantis-signs-two-animal-rights-bills-into-law/ WPTV...


Esmeralda’s Fight to Survive
Esmeralda is a 2-year-old mixed breed who came to Big Dog Ranch Rescue under heartbreaking circumstances. She was brought to us after being hit by a car, suffering from multiple severe injuries. The impact left her with a complex fracture of her right femur, a dislocated left hip, a pelvic fracture, internal bleeding, and severe chest trauma. Thanks to the generosity of our incredible donors and the support of our Miracle Fund, Esmeralda was able to receive care from an ortho


No Dog Left Behind, Meet Rambit
At Big Dog Ranch Rescue, we witness miracles every day—but some stories leave a mark on your heart that never fades. Rambit’s story is one of those. In 2022, Rambit was found as a stray in Broward County, FL—abandoned, abused, and barely clinging to life. When he arrived at Big Dog Ranch Rescue, he had duct tape wrapped tightly around his mouth, a cruel act that left behind a permanent scar and a haunting reminder of the pain he endured. He was broken, physically and emotion


A Soulmate Named Sky
Meet SKY , a five-year-old Weimaraner who has experienced both the pain of loss and the joy of love in her life. Sky comes from a sad situation—she once had a home where she was loved and well cared for. However, her owner could no longer provide for her needs, so she was sadly surrendered and taken into our care here at Big Dog Ranch. Now, she is adjusting to the unfamiliar world of shelter life. Despite her challenges, Sky has shown nothing but kindness to our team and the


Bibi’s Battle
She was found barely clinging to life—too weak to lift her head, her tiny body emaciated and broken. A compassionate bystander saw her motionless and called for help. We responded and the moment we saw the extent of her injuries, we knew we had to act quickly. Bibi had suffered unimaginable cruelty. Her ribs were fractured, her spine damaged, and her bruised skin told the story of prolonged, deliberate harm. A BB pellet was discovered beneath her skin—a chilling sign of what


Mama Moo Cow's Journey to Motherhood
Moo Cow, when we found her Mama Moo Cow was discovered wandering a farm alone in Miami-Dade County. She was scared, exhausted, and heavily pregnant. With 13 puppies on the way and no one to care for her, she faced an uncertain and frightening future. Thankfully, we stepped in just in time. We brought her to safety and gave her a quiet, comfortable space in our Puppy Cabins where she could finally rest and prepare for birth. Surrounded by warmth, compassion, and expert care, M


Megan Lost a Leg, But Not Her Will to Live
Megan is a sweet 1-year-old dog who has already been through so much in her short life. She was brought to us after being hit by a car and was transferred between several veterinary clinics as she received urgent care for her injuries. When she arrived at Big Dog Ranch Rescue, our team gave her the medical attention and support she needed. Her back left leg was badly injured, and for a while, it was kept in a cast and carefully bandaged. Despite all efforts, Megan began havi


Spring Cleaning? Make Room for a Rescue Dog in Your Life!
Spring is a time for fresh starts—decluttering our homes, clearing out what no longer serves us, and making space for new beginnings. But what if, along with tidying up your space, you also made room for something truly life-changing? This spring, consider opening your heart and home to a rescue dog in need. Clearing Out? Make Room for a Pup! During spring cleaning, we often find things we no longer need—extra blankets, old dog beds, unused leashes, or toys from a pet who has


Unexpected shutdown of 'Save This Life' leaves pets without registered microchips
"It's kind of crazy because looking at how many hospitals have been using it for so many years and now all those dogs are just, their...


Flames to Florida: Big Dog Ranch saves displaced pups, seeks loving new homes
In the wake of devastating wildfires across California, many families have lost their homes, leaving pets in peril and some being...


Big Dog Ranch Rescue saves 78 dogs displaced from California wildfires, Texas freezing temps
'We have an enormous relief that is here with the bus coming in for these dogs with our rescue team, and they will receive the care that...


Big Dog Ranch Rescue volunteers head to NC to help pets affected by hurricane
Volunteers with Big Dog Ranch Rescue left Thursday morning to head to Yancey County and Asheville, North Carolina, taking supplies for...


5th Annual Walk In Style For The Animals Raises Funds For Big Dog Ranch Rescue (BDRR)
Miami’s most fashionable animal lovers gathered at the Bal Harbour Shops on Sept. 25th, at the newly opened Carrie’s inside Neiman...


Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office therapy dogs helped after 10-person Hatton Highway crash
Many of the dogs in the program come from Big Dog Ranch Rescue . "Well, first we have to get with Big Dog Ranch. And we usually select...


Reward rises to $50K leading to arrest in Reba the English Bulldog’s death
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – The reward leading to an arrest in Reba’s death has doubled to $50,000, thanks to a donation made by a large, no-kill...


California Wildfires and Texas Freeze
Our journey began in California , where the wildfires had wreaked havoc and left countless animals in need. Shelters in LA already overwhelmed, we partnered with local rescues to help ease the amount of dogs in their shelter. By taking in dogs from our rescue partner in California, we helped create space for our Palm Springs partner to take in even more dogs from the LA area, offering them a chance at a better life. While heading back from California, we learned of dogs tra


Animal welfare groups call on Biden admin to address 'thousands' of dogs abandoned by migrants
'We need to act now before this becomes completely out of control,' Big Dog Ranch Rescue tells Fox News Digital
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