Lauree Simmons’ passion for saving dogs led her to create the LARGEST cage-free, NO-KILL dog rescue in the United States.

Lauree first became inspired while volunteering at a Weimaraner rescue. One life-changing afternoon, Lauree visited a kill shelter where 14 dogs were on the list to be euthanized that night.

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That day, her car left the facility filled with those dogs, and her vision and mission of Big Dog Ranch Rescue was born. Her unique concept of creating a temporary cage-free home that physically and mentally nurtured dogs has become a prototype of what every rescue should be.

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Since founded in 2008, Big Dog Ranch Rescue has become a powerful advocate for change, from rescuing dogs at the border to championing animal cruelty legislation signed into law.

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Her 33-acre facility, designed with her award-winning architectural and interior design skills, provides a nurturing, cage-free environment for the dogs. Despite her success as a national award-winning builder and designer, Lauree dedicates her time and resources to the rescue, accepting no compensation and enlisting her family’s business, Cheney Brothers Inc., to support the cause.