An Evening of Compassion at Four Seasons Surfside Supporting Big Dog Ranch Rescue

Photo Credit: Tracey Benson Photography

A private evening at a residence within the Four Seasons Surfside created a focused and welcoming setting for a meaningful conversation around animal welfare and long-term rescue responsibility. The gathering introduced the mission of Big Dog Ranch Rescue to a select group of Miami-Dade County supporters who actively invest time, resources, and care into protecting animals across South Florida.

Photo Credit: Tracey Benson Photography

The event centered on transparency and impact. Guests learned how many of the dogs rescued by Big Dog Ranch Rescue originate in Miami-Dade County, often arriving from neglect cases, overcrowded shelters, or unsafe environments. After rescue, these dogs receive medical care, rehabilitation, and structured behavioral support at the organization’s primary campus in Palm Beach County, where long-term placement planning begins.

Photo Credit: Tracey Benson Photography

Photo Credit: Tracey Benson Photography

Big Dog Ranch Rescue currently supports more than 1,000 dogs available for adoption at any given time. Since its founding, the organization has placed over 85,000 dogs and puppies into permanent homes. Each placement follows a detailed adoption process designed to protect both the dog and the family, with an emphasis on compatibility, stability, and lifelong care.

Photo Credit: Tracey Benson Photography

Founder Lauree Simmons played a central role throughout the evening. Her leadership remains the driving force behind the rescue’s growth, daily operations, and national recognition. Guests heard how her hands-on involvement shapes rescue standards, medical protocols, and adoption ethics while maintaining a cage-free environment built around dignity and safety.

Photo Credit: Tracey Benson Photography

The discussion also highlighted Big Dog Ranch Rescue’s purpose beyond adoption. The organization operates Puppy Town, a dedicated space focused on early care and social development for young dogs. This program supports healthier outcomes and smoother transitions into adoptive homes while reinforcing responsible pet ownership from the start.

Photo Credit: Tracey Benson Photography

Photo Credit: Tracey Benson Photography

Another key focus involved service-based programs that support people through animal care. Big Dog Ranch Rescue offers a no-cost boarding program for deployed military members, ensuring pets receive professional care during active duty assignments. The rescue also operates a veteran training program that connects returning service members with structured dog care and training opportunities, supporting routine, responsibility, and recovery through hands-on engagement.

Photo Credit: Tracey Benson Photography

Photo Credit: Tracey Benson Photography

Throughout the evening, guests gained insight into how community partnerships sustain rescue work at scale. Private support, advocacy, and education allow Big Dog Ranch Rescue to respond quickly to emergency intakes while maintaining long-term planning for each animal. The Surfside gathering strengthened relationships between local advocates and the rescue teams working daily to protect vulnerable dogs.

Photo Credit: Tracey Benson Photography

Photo Credit: Tracey Benson Photography

Photo Credit: Tracey Benson Photography

Events like this reflect the continued commitment of Big Dog Ranch Rescue to outreach and accountability. By connecting mission-driven supporters with real outcomes, the organization reinforces a shared responsibility to protect animals while building systems that support lasting change across Florida and beyond.