Rocky
Born: 8-18-2009
To LDR: 2-8-2026
Died: 3-13-2026
Hello world! I’m Rocky… a Chihuahua–Dachshund mix, if you please! Maybe Mom was the Chihuahua and Dad was the Dachshund… all I know is I got the best of both! I’ve got those trademark turned-out feet, a sleek little body, and just enough swagger to make heads turn. I’m designer and I prance like a racehorse. Yep, I’m special! But I’ll be honest — the last six months have been rough. I was shuffled from foster to foster, then I finally got adopted! I thought, “this is it… I’m home.” But a few weeks later, my new dad had to move to another country, and I got returned. It’s hard not to take that personally. A kind person helped me find my way to LDR, and I have to say… so far, so good. The Cuddlers are gentle and New Mom gave me my own special space. Still, it’s hard to trust. When I got here, I was so upset that I stopped eating. Mom didn’t panic — she put the pedal to the metal. She went to the grocery store and bought cube steak and London broil. She pan-fried the cube steak just for me. Then she slow-cooked the London broil with carrots and potatoes — all for me alone and I ate every bite. Now between us guys, I’m still faking the hunger strike thing, so I get BEEF meals fit for a king (my sibs get chicken). Yep, I’ve got this situation pegged and Mom is in the dark! I am so glad she tells me that I’ve found my forever home!
Brewster
DOB: 12-06-2009
To LDR: 12-13-2025
Died: 2-26-2026
I’m Brewster the spider-legged crab. Wait… that’s not right… I’m a gorgeous little Papillon boy with the gangliest legs ever! I weigh 4.5 lbs and I have ridiculously big ears, not to mention long black and white fur that seems to grow an inch daily. Mom says I look like a baby skink curled up in bed. My super power is that I have the squirmiest, scrambliest legs ever and I can give even the most dexterous Cuddler a run for their money! But all this is good news cuz when I came to LDR I was sick – really sick. I had pneumonia and infected sinuses. I was beyond weak. The Cuddler Brigade came in droves and sat in the Quarantine Room, rocking me for hours. Some days I had 6 or 8 hours of cuddles plus a warm bed plus a heater and a vaporizer. It was heaven and I got stronger. Mom felt the culprit was my teeth and Doc Drum agreed. They took out all those nasties and voila! Now, I’m a walking fool. I traverse the big back yard for hours even though I’m blind. Mom claps when I poop and pee – it’s sure nice to be recognized for good performances! I have no teeth, a lizard-sized tongue, and I’m the best eater in the house! Mom blenderizes my food so it is super smooth just like a McDonalds milkshake – speaking of which – I think I’d like to try one of those someday! AND, for the record, I always pick the biggest, softest bed in the house! I’m Brewster and I’m worth it!
CHRISSY
Born: 1-13-2018
To LDR: 12-13-2025
Died: 2-24-2026
I’m Chrissy… my namesake is another beautiful survivor, Chrissy Holder. My story is special. 9:30pm… my new Mom’s phone rang. Superhero Kayley cried as she told Mom that she found me about 2 miles down the road. I had walked up to her and Joey in the parking lot. I was bloody, hurt badly, and scared… but I had to take the risk to say “help me”. Kayley & Joey said I was the sweetest girl ever, but they had two dogs and one had a bad attitude. I could overhear my new Mom’s voice when Kayley called her. “Have you tried animal control?” “Have you called the police?” “How much does she weigh cuz my limit is 25 lbs.” My heart sank as I realized there might not be help for me. Then Kayley tugged at Mom’s heartstrings and said “Thanks for taking my call… I guess I’ll sleep in the parking lot with her and try again when the sun comes up.” Next thing… Mom said a bad word that starts with “S” and means poop. The rest is history. I was driven to LDR and Mom set me up in the garage, but she made a mistake. The door was slightly unlatched so in the middle of the night I tiptoed past A WHOLE LOTTA small dogs and a few cats and found a comfortable sofa. The next morning, I was in! Mom says I am a “one in a million” dog. Thanks Holders and Asburys for paying my vet bills. I am the happiest camper ever!
SHADOW
Born: 12-2-2013
To LDR: 12-13-2025
Died: 2-19-2026
Hey There, I’m Shadow. Yep, I am as handsome as the day is long. But my innards are a real mess. To my extreme pride, I’m fully intact! Yes Sir & Madam, I’m a REAL dude. But… this led to an enlarged prostate…. which led to a constricted bowel… which led to a perianal hernia. Yowza, no wonder things hurt! Plus, my heart is bad and my knees are horrid… I walk like an old cowboy. So, let’s sum this up… I’m the total package! All said…. I quickly ranked top dog with the pack when I inherited the much sought-after tuffet bed from Bertie (she crossed The Rainbow Bridge). Mom said I was gorgeous and all the Volunteer Cuddlers pick me for their laps. Mom makes me special food with special oil to keep all my systems moving right along. Bottomline, I am coddled and quite the little king – exactly how I like it! THEN, if you can believe it, one day after a potty break, I returned to my tuffet to find that Pita had crawled up onto it. SERIOUSLY??? You’ve GOT to be kidding! So me (Mr. Fancy Pants) and Pita (LDR’s head beeatch) had it out. There was a whole lotta barkin’, spittin’, and snarlin’ going on. I peed on the floor and Pita pooped. Mom intervened and she was VERY not happy. She carried Pita to her office for a time-out. I reigned. And that’s my story – I’m Special Shadow and I love it!
TEDDY
Born: 11-20-2009
To LDR: 11-1-2025
Died: 2-16-2026
Hey! I’m Teddy– a very fancy fellow! I have AKC papers and I am SUPER handsome! For 16 years I’ve been a lucky dude with a great, loving family. But circumstances changed and “my people” had to be away more and more. Lately, I’ve been all by myself day after day… the stress was killing me. Dad found me this spot at LDR and at first I was like “no way” do I wanna move. But Dad said it was for my best, and you know what?… it is! I have been to the vet for a full checkup. I now take a few pills and feel terrific. I went to the eye doc too and now my new Mom gives me eyedrops 4 times a day. I put up one heck of a stink (just cuz that’s what a fancy guy does) but the drops work! My eyes are big and bright (except for the cataracts) like they used to be! I am heading to the beauty parlor this Wednesday and Mom says she’s gonna pay a little extra for a fancy do – one that befits my pure-blooded Bichon status. Yep, I’m Teddy and I’m stylin’ at LDR!
BERTIE
Born: 5/30/2009
To LDR: 6/28/2025
Died: 11/21/2025
Age: 16.5
Bertie was special due to her eyes. You see, they shrunk to almost nothing. Don’t know why, when, or how… but bottom-line, she couldn’t see. She was also mostly deaf. Kind Maxine (Max’s Pet Connection) plucked her from the shelter, knowing she needed extra care. She was definitely on the Stuggle Bus when she arrived to LDR. She was sooo nervous and just couldn’t control her long, “hangy outty” tongue. Body-wise though, she was rockin’ it, and walked for hours in our big back yard. Doc Drum at Colony Plaza AH found the perfect meds for her and quick like a bunny she learned to navigate the yard, let herself back into the house after a walk, find me, find her water bowl, and most importantly, locate her fancy tuffet bed! Between walks and naps and her fav – MEALTIME – Bertie’s life got better every day. One night she finally let me pick her up for a snuggle — she rested her head on my shoulder and nodded off. I knew she felt safe and was content. Over a quick week, Bertie’s kidney’s failed and she crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. Run free “Teacher’s Pet”.
CUJO
Born: 8/19/2010
To LDR: 10/9/2025
Died: 11/10/2025
Age: ~15
Tiny Cujo… I know, such a silly name for a 3-lb gal like her! Her poor 1st Mom broke her hip and went to the hospital for a long time. Cujo stayed home alone and the safest place for her seemed to be in the bathroom. A lady came every few days with food, but she got weaker and weaker. Thank you to her 1st Mom for realizing her needs and sending her to LDR. Cujo was met with loving arms and enjoyed her own cozy corner in the kitchen. She laid in the dappled sunlight under fluffy blankets. We set up an AstroTurf round pen on the patio for her potty breaks. Cujo was on a special, super delicious food for her kidney disease along with specialty medications. She visited the Ophthalmologist in Ocala. She even received laser treatments for her week spine/backlegs (paid for by a generous supporter). Cujo was “the darling” of all the Cuddlers, who came every day to hold her, wrapped in soft fleece, with spa music in the background. She had the ultimate of loving care and gained 12 ounces during her weeks here. However, in the end, she had simply failed too much and her body gave out. She died in my arms, knowing she was truly loved. Rest easy Sweet and Funny little girl.
TIPPY
Born: 9/26/2011
To LDR: 10/2/2024
Died: 10/22/2025
Age: 14
Tippy the Phoenix! Last summer he had surgery for liver cancer. Then his wonderful Mom died and he sat with her for 6 days until someone found them. Wow… the stress! Then, to make matters worse, he landed in a shelter! Luckily, some great gals from Team Moose in Cape Coral heard about him cuz the shelter lady said “Tippy is just too awesome to be put down.” Team Moose called Susan from Poodle & Pooch Rescue, who called Little Dog Ranch and he was on his way! Linda Kaye (what a gal!) transported him all the way from southern FL to his new digs at LDR. With that his mojo was back and he became a fetching fool! Tippy was on fire whenever someone would throw him a ball. BUT… he definitely loved Margaret the Cat a little TOO much! AND, he rolled Mickey a time or two trying to herd him. Tippy and his boundless energy traveled to Missouri with Kristy, our wonderful dog sitter and lived out his life in a rural setting with his “fiancé” — Briana the English Bulldog. His cancer returned and his heart enlarged quickly but Tippy left this earth feeling wonderfully fulfilled. Catch the stars Gorgeous Boy!
RAY CHARLES
Born: 7/28/2011
To LDR: 7/22/2025
Died: 9/29/25
Age: 14+ years
Ray Charles aka Stevie Ray Charles aka Stevie Ray — held the record for awesome names at LDR! More importantly, he was a quiet, respectful stud who often whispered his confusion that not one gal at LDR seemed to care. His only interested party was Bam Bam… but that was a no-go! Millie liked him too but she was too big and scary for our sweet boy. Ray had a very bad back and due to his arrival at LDR with pancreatitis, he enjoyed a home-made white rice and chicken diet. He was always a part of the clean plate club! To help with Ray’s “stegosaurus” back, Doc Amy Huff put him on steroids and YOWZA, in just 3 days he was up and moving, however his success was short-lived. Xrays soon showed internal abnormalities that were likely prostate and/or bladder cancer. Stevie Ray left our earth on a sunny day in the arms of his Mom. We rejoice that he is now pain free and frolicking in heaven. RIP Sweet Angel.
ROXY
Born: 2/10/2015
To LDR: 3/29/2025
Died: 9/20/2025
Age: 10.5 years
Hffff, Pffff, bounce, pant… that was Roxy saying “Hi” — dancing on her back legs and wiggling her booty — she was FULL OF ENERGY but this wasn’t always so. Fresh out of rehab, she went to a wonderful home with parents Bobbie & Michael. Due to their own health issues, Roxy then found respite at LDR. Then she was struggling with REALLY bad skin and was on antibiotics for almost 3 months. No one could have imagined her boisterous side! Once Roxy was back on her feet, her lively personality shone! Her pill container was labeled “Rambunctious Roxy, and she lived up to that name. She chased the cats and “loved” the LDR chickens WAY too much. That was it…. after her break-in to the baby chick hatchery, she found herself back with her former loving folks. Roxy succumbed to hemangiosarcoma after a brilliant run at life. There is no doubt she is frolicking wherever the winds have taken her soul. RIP Beautiful Girl.
CHARLIE
Born: Unknown
To LDR: 5/29/2023
Died: 7/18/25
Age: ~12 Years
LULU
Born: 4/10/2015
To LDR: 4/07/25
Died: 6/20/25
Age: 10 Years
LuLu was a teeny delicate lady – a little china doll. She was left in a hot Florida garage with undiagnosed diabetes, resulting in glaucoma and eyes ulcers. LuLu was emaciated, dehydrated, and in pain. She was brought her to a shelter for euthanasia, when really all she needed was medicine and TLC. An angel named Linda Daniels Blatchley rescued her and drove her straight to Little Dog Ranch. LuLu saw tons of doctors in 3 days and Linda picked up the tab. Once her insulin dosage and eyes were under control, LuLu was a delightful, happy little girl! She enjoyed walking in the yard and she LOVED her tasty diabetic food. She took her eye drops and insulin shots with grace. She slept happily on her back in her princess-style bassinette, surrounded by soft fluffy things. She developed complications and left this earth too soon but she died knowing she was safe and truly loved! Rest in Peace Sweet Angel.
TINA TURNER
Born: 10/29/2009
To LDR: 11/10/2025
Died: 4/16/2025
Age: 15.5
MARTY
Born: 10/2010
To LDR: 6/30/2023
Died: 4/16/2025
Age: 14.5
A paddy wagon took Marty to the Pasco Cty Animal Shelter just before the July 4th weekend. Gosh he was sick — horrid ear infection, terrible teeth, and cysts all over his body. He was a physical train wreck but mentally… well, call him Hulk Hogan! The shelter was filled with “tough guys” and “gangsters”. Marty soooo didn’t fit in. Some jerk in charge said he was unadoptable due to his health… and then added that he had better be gone before the weekend “or else”. That definitely didn’t sound good to Marty! Susan at Poodle & Pooch Rescue heard about him and called me. I drove to Tampa to get him, knowing I would soon be his Mom. When they opened his cage door for the “meet & greet”, Marty mustered every bit of enthusiasm he could and jumped a full 3 feet and into my arms. That did it — he was mine! Marty loved his 2-hour Freedom Ride to Little Dog Ranch, barking the entire way (yes, I was definitely thrilled!). A couple of surgeries later and he felt like a pup. Marty was FULL of energy, he love chow-time (it showed), and he did a mean imitation of Michael Jackson’s moon walk before all meals. For certain, Marty was one of LDR’s most colorful characters!
POGO
Born: 6/24/2010
To LDR: 11/16/2023
Died: 9/18/24
Age: ~14 Years
Pogo rarely made a peep. He was a soulful, diligent sentinel, demanding essentially nothing but lived to serve. He was not a fan of cuddling but preferred a simple look of love and support. His eyes connected with yours. Pogo’s hearing was amazing and his instinctive nature astounding. He either stood my my side or laid by my feet wherever I was. He was honored to protect and he felt he truly belonged. Pogo had cancer with no easy nor lasting fix available. His best path was to live out his life happily. He loved home-cooked meals and thoroughly enjoyed trotting next to the lawn mower when I mowed. Run fast and free my sweet and beautiful guardian.
PAPO
Born: 6/01/2008
To LDR: 6/27/2021
Died: 9/12/2024
Age: 16 Years
IZZY
Born: 3/1/2011
To LDR: 5/24/2022
Died: 2/12/2024
Age: 13 Years
Izzy (with sister Pita) joined LDR when their owner became ill. Izzy arrived overweight, with rotten teeth and heart/liver issues. After an extensive dental and once on an individualized healthy senior diet, she thrived. Iz was a very laid back gal who loved hugs and kisses and would stand on her back legs to be recognized and loved on. She had a large bark but zero bite. This said, she never shied away from defending her Mom or her home. Her liver issues lead to her death in early 2024. She will always be remembered as a gentle, beautiful, and loyal soul. Rest easy Sweet Girl.
LOUIE
Born: 3/03/2011
To LDR: 6/07/2021
Died: 2/07/2024
Age: ~13 Years
COMMEN
Born: 1/31/2011
To LDR: 1/19/2024
Died: 12/24/2024
Age: ~13 Years
Commen… a most serene, calm little man with a face only a mother could love. His first Mom & Dad were wonderful but gone for work a lot. He was lonely and cried so his folks brought him to LDR. Not long thereafter, he decided he liked being one of the pack! Commen benefited greatly from his new-found ophthalmologist and daily eyedrops helped him a lot. Soon he clapped eyes on Kristy, our helper at LDR, and he was in love. Kristy fell in love too and cradled Commen in her arms every chance she got. Loving to sleep and eat, he had his own large, flat, dinner plate that accommodated his handsome flat face! Of all the “kids” over the years, Commen had THE most spectacular tail… like a train on a wedding dress. Tail aside, it was Commen’s special face that always brought a smile. Rest in peace gorgeous boy.
OSITO
Born: 1/14/2008
To LDR: 3/20/2023
Died: 12/18/2024
Age: ~17 Years
Osito (“Teddy Bear” in Spanish)… a miniature toy poodle prince. His previous owners loved him dearly but couldn’t give him the eldercare he needed. His heart was significantly enlarged, he had a growth in his lung, his spine was humped, and let’s not even talk about his teeth – they were downright hideous. But then came the miracle part – heart medications and losing those rotten teeth did him wonders. Osito had a prance to his gait and strutted regally! His little fluffy poodle legs resembled a double pair of Ugg boots. He was spoiled as he should have been! Handfeeding? Check! Sleeping next to Mom in bed? Check! Eating his pills wrapped in liverwurst? Check! Osito knew he was living the life and he loved it. He sat next to Mom everyday in her office – snuggled in a deep, comfy, warm bed. He was happiest just being included — he even loved Margaret the cat. Osito had a beautiful soul and he was treated like a little king. Rest in peace royal boy!
SALTY
Born: 6/01/2011
To LDR: 4/06/2022
Died: 8/25/2023
Age: 13 Years
OMG – What a trooper and what an incredible dog! Salty had giant medical challenges. From Cushing’s Disease to Congestive Heart Failure – add arthritis and a proneness for pancreatitis… dear Salty had it all. And to this he said “Fuhgeddaboudit”. He ran and played as if nothing was wrong. He even went after (and killed one, might we add) the LDR chickens – those flapping wings were irresistible! When 2 new kittens arrived at LDR, Salty left this earth in style. He ate the cat food, chased the kittens around the house, and then his heart gave out. It was an honor to know and love Salty — he led his life with gusto. Rest in peace my devoted, loving, and inspirational friend.
OSCAR
Born: ~8/25/2006
To LDR: 9/17/2021
Died: 4/30/2023
Age: ~16+ Years
Oscar was a most typical dachshund – the slightest whiff of food and he moved faster than lightning on ridiculously short legs! One Thanksgiving, he tipped over the kitchen trash and devoured the turkey carcass – resulting in emergency surgery at the local ER. Although prone to pancreatitis and living with Cushing’s Disease, Oscar lived a good life. He slept peacefully throughout each night in “Mom’s bed”… his head cuddled in the crook of my arm (the position that makes your arm go to sleep!). He had been failing at the time of his death and left the earth enjoying a walk among the palm trees on the front lawn. Rest in peace my special boy.
PRINCESS
Born: 12/04/2006
To LDR: 5/01/2022
Died: 4/13/2023
Age: 16+ Years
Princess was a very funny gal who came from a loving home. When her owner could no longer care for her, she enjoyed a private car ride from North Carolina to LDR. Princess was quirky in her likes and dislikes. She loved being outdoors and loved to play in the dirt, making her THE dirtiest family member. She loved her fancy “couch” bed and had a tantrum when it had to be washed. You could not offer her a substitute bed… no way, no how! Generally speaking, Princess was a sleepy soul but occasionally, she found her disco moves. Her happy tap dance was the best! Prevailing heart issues took her life while strolling on her morning walk-about. Rest in peace Sweet Valentine.
MILO
Born: ~09/25/2009
To LDR: 10/26/2021
Died: 2/09/2023
Age: ~13 Years
Milo was an exceptionally long dachshund – most who met him said “wow, that is one long dog!”. Milo LOVED being outside and followed me everywhere. However, he came to LDR with significant hind-end ataxia – his gait was abnormal and his balance was off. He was also suffering from severely abscessed teeth. Years of neglect had hardened his little soul. Expert veterinary care and old-fashioned TLC lessened his pain and improved his attitude. Fifteen months after his adoption, Milo was laying at my feet by the kitchen sink. For the very first time, he leaned forward and licked my ankle… a first kiss to be remembered! Rest in peace dear soul.
WALTER
Born: 5/27/2007
To LDR: 7/24/2021
Died: 10/28/2022
Age: 15+ Years
Dear, dear Walter… he was a prince of a dog. Mellow and obedient, he was grateful to be adopted and happy to be alive. He caused neither a muss nor a fuss. He behaved exactly like he should, ate when it was time, went to bed when beckoned. OK, yes, he occasionally pee’d in the house but his generally wonderful behavior let him draw a Mulligan for an inappropriate leg lift! Walter had a distinctive prance – somewhat like a piaffe in equestrian dressage talk. Passersby would comment on his elegance. Walter developed a tumor near his heart and pranced over The Rainbow soon thereafter. Rest in peace most memorable prince.
GEORGIE
Born: Unknown
To LDR: 8/15/2021
Died: 10/5/2021
Age: ~12 Years
Georgie joined the family after he was found stray near Miami. All signs pointed to him having a traumatic head injury, perhaps hit by a car at some point. Georgie’s face was sweet and his coat was handsome. His time at LDR was short but he felt deep love, enjoyed good food, and rested easy in his comfy bed. The Rainbow held warm promises for this dear, sweet boy. Rest in peace my friend.
KENAI
Born: 3/27/2005
To LDR: 2011
Died: 8/26/2021
Age: 16+ Years
Kenai – my precious baby who came with me from CO. A perfect pure-bred miniature shih tzu who pee’d on the white carpet of his former owner… this crime brought him to me. He was 6 at the time and there the love affair began. Spoiled for sure… stubborn & demanding indeed! Sometimes “Keens”, sometimes “Peeney” – he was the best of the best. He struck a pose so still and so elegant that he resembled a very expensive stuffed toy — he was truly beautiful. He is buried under a magnificent palm tree in a highly decorated grave. Visitors still stop at spot and often leave adornments. Rest in peace my beautiful boy – you are #1 forever.
DONATE TODAY
PROVIDING LOVE AND CARE FOR SENIOR DOGS WITH MEDICAL CHALLENGES: JOIN THE LITTLE DOG RANCH MOVEMENT TODAY!
Little Dog Ranch
(501c3) EIN #87-4804231
DONATE BY CHECK
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in your dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look one more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together…
Click Below to enjoy Israel Kamakawiwoʻole (or simply IZ) (May 20, 1959 – June 26, 1997) performing “Somewhere Over The Rainbow”….
then scroll to view those who have crossed over at LDR.