LOXAHATCHEE, Fla. (CBS12) — While we honor those who have served in the military this Veteran’s Day, one local organization is saying ‘thank you’ in a special way.
There’s a large population of veterans in Palm Beach County and surrounding areas. Big Dog Ranch Rescue (BDRR) in Loxahatchee recognized the need for service dogs and decided to give back to those who have given so much for our country.
“It’s amazing. Big Dog (Ranch Rescue) always kind of leading the way for veterans,” said Andre Collins, a trainer for the BDRR service dog program & Navy veteran.
Leading the way one furry four-legged friend at a time.
BDRR debuting their new ‘Patriot Pet Lodge’ this week, just in time for Veteran’s Day.
“Our passions are saving dogs and helping our heroes, our veterans. Whether they’re suffering from PTSD, or mobility issue, or traumatic brain issue, whatever their issues are, and they require a service dog,” said Lauree Simmons, the founder of Big Dog Ranch Rescue.
The previous service dog training facility was a much smaller space.
“We probably have about 50 veterans a week coming in and out, working with our trainers, but we only have the capability of housing 20 dogs there at a time. So, it was taking up a lot of space,” said Simmons.
With more than 500 veterans on a waitlist.
But the new lodge is bigger and better.
“Being able to fit more (dogs) and identify more very quickly and get them going is going to be fundamental to the program, where we can drastically get more veterans in to our flow and have more veterans a year,” said Jessy Manly, the manager for the BDRR service dog program & Army veteran.
The Patriotic Pet Lodge will hold up to 100 more service dogs in new rooms. The doggy pool and yard, also a plus.
“The more opportunities we have to help more veterans. And that’s what it’s all about. They sacrificed a lot when they signed up, and kind of being able to help them when they leave is huge,” said Collins.
And a special perk for the active-duty service members being deployed. The lodge will offer free boarding to ensure those dogs are cared for while their owners serve overseas.
“They know they’re going to be safe, be kept, you know, treated very well for utmost priority. Because we have veterans ourselves that are employed here who are to help them take care of and run these things for them,” said Manly.
Veterans helping veterans this Veteran’s Day and every day after.
“We want to thank our veterans. You’ve given our country so much, and we’re so happy to be a part of giving back. When you need us, you need a service dog, we’re here for you to fill that void you,” said Simmons.
Big Dog Ranch Rescue operates solely on donations.
If you would like to donate or volunteer here to help the veterans and their service dogs, click here.