My wife and I have a dream to build a facility to rehabilitate dogs facing euthanasia for behavior issues.

We purchased a home on over 2 acres in a very rural area of Arizona. When we bought the home, our goal was to set up a fostering program for shelter dogs that have been in a shelter for too long. Dogs that are in need of rehabilitation (i.e., under-socialized, kennel deterioration, basic and specialized training needs, etc.).

The plan is to build a home-like facility with 4 to 6 small furnished rooms, with solar, water, and climate control. Each room will have a door that opens to a large, fenced run with shade, kiddie pools, various equipment for dog entertainment/enrichment, and a training area.

My wife, Julie, has over 25 years of professional experience in training dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages. She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Animal Behavior College Mentor Trainer, and a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She also is a Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, a charter member of the Pet Professional Guild, CARAT Evaluator, CLASS Evaluator, Operation Socialization Certified Trainer, and an American Red Cross Pet First Aid Instructor. She has conducted thousands of dog evaluations in both municipal shelters as well as smaller non-profits and rescues. She was a member of the board of the Humane Society of Calvert County. Julie also conducted seminars for Your Dog’s Friend in Washington, DC about behavioral and aggression rehabilitation and the Baby Ready Pets program. Her former training company, Training by Julie and Associates, LLC was voted Best of Obedience and Behavior in Washingtonian Magazine in 2011. She is currently an Animal Protection Officer and the behavioral specialist with Lost Our Home Pet Rescue in Tempe, AZ.

Me? I just love caring for them and giving these dogs the love and attention they need. I have learned a great deal working with my wife as well as dogs we have adopted with special needs. Body language, recognizing and mitigating signs of stress, and how to give the right response to relax a dog. Together, we can make a difference and give these long-term shelter dogs the help they need to thrive.

We are looking to raise $100,000. It is a lot of money. We’re looking at building the ideal foster facility from the ground up.

This is not a business venture. It will be a nonprofit care facility to rehabilitate foster dogs and get them ready for their forever homes.

The photo shown;  the smaller, squared off area is where the facility and training yard will be located. Approximately 8,000 square feet.  It may be extended, doubling the square footage. 

More photos of location and conceptual images coming soon.