BETTY
Born: 07-30-2012
To LDR: 08-8-2026
My name is Betty, and I am a redhead. But please don’t let that fool you—I am not spicy. I am the exact opposite: calm, accepting, and convinced that all things are wonderful, especially humans and dogs. I’m a long-haired Chihuahua blend, and I am told my sleek, shiny coat is a glory to behold. I agree, naturally. I was found wandering the streets of Orlando, although I don’t think I had been out there very long. So, what’s wrong with this picture? Well… I have several large, pendulous tumors on my underside. One can only hope that whoever “set me free” did so with a prayer that a good Samaritan would find me and take care of my health. And that is exactly what happened! Miss Pam from Lil Rascals sprung me from doggy jail after my pickup. Then Kathy and Tony, my wonderful transport drivers, traveled all the way from The Villages to Orlando to bring me to my forever home. Two days later, I had my first vet visit. The tumors were obvious, but they aren’t my biggest problem. My teeth are horrid, I’m anemic, and I also need to see the eye doctor. But there is a plan! Soon I’ll be all fixed up and 100% A-OK. Until then, my tail keeps wagging. I sleep soundly in Cuddler laps and show everyone, every single day, what it means to be a truly wonderful dog. I am so glad I’m here.
LUIGI
Born:
To LDR:
My name is Luigi – My life – well, I’m gonna tell you abouuddit. Before, things were not so good. I came to Little Dog Ranch straight from jail. They called me Linguini in the joint. Linguini! Can you imagine? Who wants to be named after spaghetti? Thanks Uncle Tony – he took one look at me and said, “Nope, this little guy is Luigi.” Now that’s a name with dignity. I’m about fourteen… OK, fifteen… OK, sixteen years young. I’m a six-pound Italian gent with a face full of wisdom and a body that’s seen some stuff. My legs… skinny and shaky, but I can still take any one of the young punks here – that is if I can stay awake for the fight. I walk every morning to keep in shape, and I take my sweet time. Hey… Luigi doesn’t rush for nobody cuz Luigi knows the secret to life. I love food. I love naps. Most of all, I love being held. I can sleep for three hours straight in Uncle Tony or Uncle Rick’s arms. These guys are working on perfecting the Luigi-holding technique and yeah, you can count on me to supervise their work. Some people say I look like an aging mobster whose glory days are behind him. Personally, I think I look distinguished. My dream is simple: a veranda overlooking the Mediterranean, expensive sunglasses, a whiskey sour in paw, and a fine cigar resting nearby. I’d lean back in my lounge chair, take a sip, smile, and let the world drift by. Until then, I’ll settle for naps in loving arms. Life is grand.
HELEN KELLER
Born:
To LDR:
Hi! I’m Helen Keller, and my friends at Little Dog Ranch say my name fits me perfectly. I’m a little Yorkie-poo, under 10 pounds, about 12 years old, and I don’t see much of the world anymore. I don’t hear much, either. You might think that makes life difficult, but I’ve learned that there are many ways to find your way when you have a brave heart. Before I came to LDR, I lived as a stray. Life was hard. I was thirsty, tired, and not feeling well at all. The police found me and took me to the Osceola Shelter. Everyone knew I needed help, so I was sent to LDR. Mom took me to the hospital on Day 1, and I spent two days getting IV fluids because I was so dehydrated. My teeth were in terrible shape too, but I was lucky. Blood work and a chest X-ray proved I was healthy enough for a big dental operation. Twelve rotten teeth had to go! I only have eight left, but that’s plenty for enjoying my delicious soft food meals. But if I’m honest, eating is only my second favorite activity. My favorite thing to do is sleep! Volunteer JoAnn brings the most wonderful round, fluffy beds for us dogs. If you’re looking for me, start checking the circular fluffies. 100% odds you’ll find me curled up dreaming peacefully. Even though I can’t see or hear, I know when I am safe and loved. At Little Dog Ranch, all my needs are met, my belly is full, and my life is easy. For a little dog like me, that’s pure happiness.
BUMBLES
Born: 03-24-2011
To LDR: 03-28-2026
Uh uh uh Hi…. I’m Ba, Ba, Ba, Bumbles. Hold on… let me gather myself up and stop bumbling. I came from the street and I’m still a little shell-shocked. I just can’t figure out what has happened to me. Mom keeps asking me but all I can say is “ey, ey, ey, really don’t know”. I can’t hear well and I can’t see hardly at all up close and this makes me “flinchy” when anything or anyone gets close to me. That includes Halo’s big tail that hits me daily when she saunters by. She is soooo oblivious! You know, I looked like a train wreck when I came to LDR but WOW, thanks to a courtesy groom from Michelle and Zach at Happy Paws, I am the most handsome boy you’ll ever see! Go ahead…. sa, sa, say it! Mom is so happy with me cuz I don’t cause any commotion, and I’m a really good eater. I mean really, why would I ever cause trouble? This place is great and they installed a doggy door I’m pretty sure just for me! I love the yard and it’s just the best to go in and out as I please. AND, they have these humans called Cuddlers here – my name is on the white board for cuddles on every shift (I can’t see the board, but Scarlett told me so – she’s a real busy body!). I really luv, luv, luv it here!
DAI CHI
Born: 01-01-2015
To LDR: 03-26-2026
Oh Hey – I’m DaiChi. Mom yells at me more than anybody else at our house. It’s crazy cuz I’m really the best boy. I’m super smart, super energetic, and SO interested in EVERYTHING! I’m stuck in this old folks home with all these old boring dogs. I DON’T belong here, but there was a time that I did. You see, I was an Orlando street find and I was a mess. My teeth were killing me, my bladder was loaded with bladder stones, I was peeing blood, AND (to my great pride) I was a REAL MAN – yep, had all my parts! My Orange County Shelter writeup was not flattering to say the least. But that very day, Mom made a phone call to Lil Rascals Dog Rescue. She had a few openings at LDR and wanted to know if her friend Miss Pam had anyone that might need help. Miss Pam said – “wait a minute, I just heard of a guy”! That’s all it took… calls were made, and a transport brought me to LDR. And that’s when I learned about doctors! I had the full service… first, my teeth, then my prostate (remind me what that is???), then my bladder stones, then my manhood (I definitely know what THAT is). I wore a cone of shame for a long time but now, I’m rockin’ and rollin’! My energy is through the roof and I feel great… I like having my nose in everything! Like today, a new sister Corleen arrived – a gorgeous blond and just my size. I immediately had ideas, but Mom yelled – DaiChi… stay out of trouble! How did she know?
PRINCESS
Born: 07-25-2011
To LDR: 03-17-2026
I’m Princess and I’m AWESOME… but something’s weird. I’ve been adopted lots but always find myself back at the shelter. I honestly don’t know why. I’m calm and polite, I never cause a fuss, and I’m very good looking! All I can say is “go figure!”. No matter, my new home at LDR is fantastic and this time, it’s forever! Right now, Mom is typing at her desk and I’m in a nice fluffy bed at her feet. I love going to work in the office and just so you know, I’m a very big help. My snoring lets her concentrate better! Propriety demands that I give a big shout out to my BFF Jeff Roels – without him, I wouldn’t be here. You see, I limp badly (bone spurs in my elbows) and it was getting difficult for my former parents to walk me. Jeff saw my plight so he checked out LDR and was happy with what he saw. He came to get me and said “this place is for you!” He even made a donation to cover my medical bills for a long time. Now I’m here and life is grand. The vet gave me pain pills for my elbows which helps a lot. I can cruise our big yard now! AND, I don’t have to be on a leash at potty time. We princesses love a little privacy. And the food – GREAT! Volunteer Geri makes spectacular meal toppers from scratch! That’s the only time I step out of line – when I see a sib leave some topping on their plate – well, let’s just say it disappears! Cheers to LDR!
SASSY
Born: 01-01-2016
To LDR: 03-17-2026
Hello, I’m Sassy — and that’s not just my name. I’m actually sassy! I am 4.5lbs of attitude. I growl, I snarl, I nip, I bite. Bottom line, I don’t want to be held, touched, petted, fed, nor anything else by you or any of your friends. That’s it – end of story. UNLESS of course, you’re my new Mom cuz I love her to pieces. She picks me up and cuddles me but the best is when she kisses me on the head and pets my beautiful fur. She gives me a syringe of melted pills twice a day before meals and that’s just fine with me. I know… no one understands my finicky self. I even give wonderful Miss Debbie, a much-proclaimed Chihuahua whisperer, a hard time. I think I’m just mad. You see, I was up in Georgia with my bonded brother when our folks decided to break us up and send me away cuz I was so old. That just sucked but I am grateful to Lil Rascals Dog Rescue for helping me. I journeyed for HOURS and had to switch between 3 different transfers to get to LDR. I was so exhausted, but I definitely feel better now. I am old but spry and get along very well, despite my crooked back. The food here is good and I eat in my own private dining hall. I sleep in the softest bed and Mom loves me… and honestly that’s really all I need!
BODHI
Born: 11-18-2015
To LDR: 2-25-2026
Howdy! I’m Bodhi and I’m a 10-pound Chihuahua with a small head, rotund body, and a big heart! I may be 10 years old, but don’t let that fool you… I’ve still got plenty of pep in my paws! I love to play with my toys and really love tug of war with a soft squeaky! I came to Little Dog Ranch on Tuesday and I was a sad. My mom went to the hospital, and she couldn’t keep me anymore. I missed her very much and I cried for lots of hours. Then dinnertime came and I didn’t feel so bad anymore. The chow was great and that’s when I realized I was in a really special place. I get along with everyone — bigger dogs, littler dogs, blind dogs, deaf dogs. Best of all – there are more than 40 beds to choose from! Every day is like a luxury vacation. And there are THREE bins of toys that are just the right “small dog” size. I also scored a prime sleeping spot in New Mom’s big human bed, but I’m sworn to secrecy. Not bad for the new little guy! I do have a small “owie” on my bum, but Mom whisked me off to Doc Drum and she even sent pictures of my backside to Doc Sanchez, the surgeon in Gainesville. Talk about embarrassing but I hear I’m getting an operation to fix my behind…. and Mom says that comes with treats! So much Cuddler attention, so many beds & toys, and such good grub. I didn’t just land on my feet — I landed in a big tub of butter!
Ms. Charlie
Born: 11-01-2014
To LDR: 2-25-2026
Hi there! My name is Miss Charlie and I’m a delightful mini poodle with a big heart. I used to live with my Dad, and let me tell you — I loved him lots. I was always friendly, loving, and up for a snuggle. But then something changed. I found out I had diabetes — those daily insulin shots and careful meals were going to be just too much for Dad to handle. He made the very hard choice to let me go to a new place where I could get the care I truly needed. That’s how I ended up at Little Dog Ranch — and let me tell you, I struck gold. The moment I arrived, I felt loved and safe. There are so many new siblings here — all shapes, sizes, and personalities — and we get along like a big happy family. I made friends fast! I love my new insulin routine, and the delicious special food makes me feel strong and healthy every day. The people here take such good care of me — belly rubs, cozy beds, walks in the yard, and gentle pats anytime I want them. AND, New Mom picked me to be one of only 5 dogs that sleep with her in the big human bed! Life at Little Dog Ranch isn’t just good — it’s perfect for a little dog like me. I’m loved, I’m thriving, and I feel joy every day!
LILLY
Born: 11-15-2007
To LDR: 1-13-2026
My name is Lilly… the plump, three-legged, emotionally dramatic belle at LDR. I was born in 2007, which makes me nineteen years young. Nineteen. Let that soak in. I’ve been around long enough to know instinctively when someone reaches for the food scoop. I’m likely a Miniature Pinscher/Chihuahua mix — emphasis on the “mix.” I’ve had three legs since birth, so I don’t know any different. I get around just fine outside. Grass? Dirt? Gravel? I’m nimble. Inside is another matter. Slippery floors try to take me down while I try to defy gravity. It’s an ongoing negotiation and my legs splay out constantly. Mom is such a softie… she just bought a bunch of 8-foot runner rugs to line my path… my personal runway so I can scurry safely. Yes, I’m a dib-dab heavy but I think of myself as “well-insulated”. This said, we had meal incident 2 days ago. Apparently when you dine on cat poop mixed with sand, people judge. Yes. That happened. In my defense, when I met up with Toby the cat in the litter box, it seemed like an intriguing buffet situation. It wasn’t until mid-sample that I knew I had made a fine dining mistake. Boom… I’m on a field trip to the ER. X-rays… blood work… an enema… we will not be discussing that portion of the evening. Medications followed. Mom was super impressed with my life choices. Darn, just when I was working extra hard at winning Mom’s heart. Besides all my other wonderful traits, I have serious separation anxiety and religiously whine a “please-don’t-leave-me-ever-again” melody. I know Mom loves me soooo much cuz she always tells me that I’m a “real get”. I definitely have her wrapped securely around my paw!
ZULI
Born: 1-4-2012
To LDR: 1-2-2026
I’m Zuli. Go ahead, say it – “Zuli has the cutest face on earth and is absolutely adorable!” I am a bit of a spoiled brat. I lived with my awesome 90-year-old Mom until she passed away – I sat on her lap pretty much 24-7. Yep, I’m 100% a diva and I bark BIG. I want what I want when I want it. Everyone says the same thing…. “for such a little dog, she sure is DEMANDING!” Really, it’s great to be me and have the attention of everyone and everything around me! Not to say that I haven’t faced some tough times. My first Mom loved me sooo much, but she was a shut-in and I developed horrific matting on my feet. Each of my feet was encased in nearly 7” of felted hair. When Mom died, I was brought to LDR and had surgery right away to remove the matting. Sadly, my poor legs had been strangled from circulation for years and many parts/pieces were not salvageable. Wow… kind folks really rallied when they heard my story. They sent tiny wheelchairs and makeshift prosthetics but guess what…. I’m learning to do just fine without any “stuff”. So don’t worry about me… I slumber in the best beds in the house, and I’m covered by the softest pink blankets. “Auntie Michele” even bought me a papoose so Mom can carry me around while she does her chores! Everyone loves me to the moon and back…. but really… what’s not to love???!!!
KIP
Born: 06/3/2014
To LDR: 08/29/2025
Kip here! I’m the sweetest, most docile, kind and awesome boy ever. I definitely think Mom loves me best, but I can’t tell the others. Oddly, I’m actually healthy… well mostly. I’m on thyroid meds and eye drops for my one eye (I lost the other one from glaucoma), but come on… you should see the pill cases for my bros and sisters… I’m like a fresh breath of air. I came from Poodle and Pooch Rescue where they took great care of me. I was up for adoption for months but no takers – I guess cuz I wasn’t puppy and had monthly med costs. But, come on, just look at me… what’s not to love?? Everyone says I’m absolutely adorable. I have two cool front teeth… and that combined with my pirate look – well, call it perfection. I stand on my back legs and hop for attention. I will snuggle into any lap and quickly roll over for belly rubs (I’m no dummy!). I love my siblings and the chow here is great. AND, upon arrival, I scored a space in Mom’s people bed. I am truly the happiest kid at LDR!
COCO
Born: 01/01/2009
To LDR: 05/07/2025
Hello, I’m Coco! Mom loves me sooo much cuz I’m LDR’s first “Joey’s Fund” dog! What’s Joey’s Fund, you ask? Well, an unbelievably philanthropic gal with a heart the size of Texas set up a fund with one sole purpose. Joey’s Fund, a part of Poodle and Pooch Rescue of FL (PPR), lends medical and adoption support for dog parents requesting euthanasia for their pet when the pet still has life left to live. You know — when the parents just give up – like mine did. I’m a 16-year-old senior and my skin had gone south. I was covered with sores and I cried all the time. I was brought to the vet for the final deed. Luckily the vet said NO WAY! and whipped out the Joey’s Fund brochure. I was relinquished me to PPR and my angel Susan, the Joey’s Fund representative, whisked me off to LDR where I could recover. Boy, am I stylin’ now! My skin is clear, my fur is fabulous, I don’t cry any more, I’ve put on weight, and I sleep with Mom in the big bed. Life is magnificent thanks to Joey’s Fund!
MILLIE
Born: 12/26/2013
To LDR: 01/10/2025
I’m Millie and Mom says I’m a sweetheart. I’m mellow and happy… she says I’m “actually normal”. Huh… wonder what she says about the others… don’t ask, right? I came here quite filthy, stinking to the high heavens, with flea bites all over. Luckily the two Cathy/Kathy volunteers gave me a thorough scrubbing – wow it felt good! Then Mom took me to the ophthalmologist, and it turns out I have totally dry eyes. Good eye drops are helping me a lot. Friday was another big health day… I had nine really rotten teeth removed and a cyst too. Sure, I have a little emphysema but who doesn’t? — and I take a tiny pill (wrapped in good stuff!) so I’m good-to-go! Pampering is definitely in store cuz while I was at the vet, Eileen the groomer happened by. She got REALLY excited at the thought of coiffing my silky hair in about 7 weeks. I have to say – I never imagined I’d feel such love!
SCARLETT
Born: 01/01/2016
To LDR: 01/07/2025
BAM BAM
Born: Unknown
To LDR: 08/28/2022
Hey there folks! Let me spill the beans about my epic journey. I’m Bam Bam but Mom calls me Bamalicious cuz she says I’m simply delicious! I strutted into LDR with a health situation that would make your jaw drop. My ear canals were like a VIP party for polyps, causing a ruckus, some serious infections, and a lifetime of pain! My eyes were bad too but drops fixed those. Folks thought I was 19, but I thought I was closer to a spry 15. Surgery was a bon voyage for my inner left ear and bam! I felt like a cool “13.” Then, it was the right ear’s turn, and suddenly I’m rocking the vibes of an 11-year-old. Next up, dental drama – they yanked out all but one rotten tooth, and voila, I’m feeling like a smooth “10.” Fast forward a bit, and after a bunch of healing magic, I’m now rocking it — deaf and visually impaired but pain-free. Do you know, I can now scamper! My wild guess is that I’m an 8 or 9-year-old miracle in the making! Ain’t that something?
PITA
Born: 3/1/2010
To LDR: 05/24/2022
Hi, I’m Pita and I’m 14 years young. I came to Little Dog Ranch with my sister Izzy. Our Dad went to the hospital forever and left us behind. We were scared. After a while, our aunt came and took us to LDR, the best place ever. Sadly, my sis died a few months ago (she was always sickly) but I have lots of brothers and sisters that love me. AND… I can jump!!! My special superpower is scaring the others from the couch, the ottoman, the bed – any place high. Silly dogs – wandering around not looking – till I rain down some obnoxious barkedy-bark! Hey, don’t judge… most of my bros and sistas can’t hear anyway! My lawn chatter is rude too… just ask the Chewy & Prime drivers. Yep, I defend my Mom from everyone… and yes, I get to sleep in Mom’s bed! I’m LDR’s Little Diva!
DOODLES
Born: 04/18/2011
To LDR: 04/10/2013
So, picture this – April 08, 2011, the day I, Doodles, graced the world. I’m a wise, spry senior pup and my story goes like this. I landed at the Steamboat Springs (CO) animal shelter in 2013, dumped by some clueless soul who said I was “too needy.” Can you believe it? Luckily, my true family swooped in and adopted me. Truth be told, I’m a bit of a attention-hog, and yeah, some might say I’m spoiled. I’m a lover, a real smarty pants, and proudly the leader of the pack – they even gave me the middle name “trouble”! Mom calls me Dennis the Menace too — go figure? Health-wise, I’m rocking it, still running and playing like a pup. Recently the doc said I needed eyedrops. Well, that ain’t happening. AND, baths/grooming… that ain’t happening either without a major fight! Mom calls me Pig Pen too cuz I love to be dirty. Gosh she has so many names for me — she must REALLY love me! Well, here’s my confession… I tell Mom I want to be a “good boy” but I lie. Life is just too short to follow a lot of rules!
Help us expand our program and provide care for even more dogs in need. Veterinary treatment and prescription medications are by far our largest expenses, greatly exceeding the cost of food, grooming, and everyday medical supplies. On average, it costs approximately $3,000 per year to care for each dog. Every donation—no matter the amount—helps provide the treatment, comfort, and quality of life these dogs deserve.
Your support can make a life-changing difference.
Meals and
Special Diets
Medications, Eyedrops,
Daily Injections
Veterinary Care &
Emergency Medical
Housing, Bedding,
Diapers, Pee Pads
Regular Grooming,
Mat Removal, Nail Trims
DONATE BY CHECK:
Little Dog Ranch, Inc.
1204 MANDARIN LANE
FRUITLAND PARK, FL 34731
EIN #87-4804231
