Big Dog Ranch Rescue Raises $5.5 Million at Star-Studded Wine, Women & Shoes Gala in Palm Beach

Photo Credit: Big Dog Ranch Rescue

Philanthropy, fashion, and a shared love for animals came together in extraordinary fashion as Big Dog Ranch Rescue hosted its annual Wine, Women & Shoes fundraising weekend in Palm Beach, drawing more than 2,000 guests and raising a record-breaking $5.5 million to support lifesaving rescue efforts for dogs across the United States. The glamorous three-day event took place at the iconic Mar-a-Lago Club, where supporters, philanthropists, celebrities, and animal advocates gathered to celebrate compassion, community, and the mission of ending dog homelessness.

Photo Credit: Big Dog Ranch Rescue

Held from March 6 to 8, the annual charity event carried the theme “Petals & Paws: Together We Help Every Dog Bloom,” reflecting both the celebratory spirit of the gathering and the powerful purpose behind it. The event blended high fashion, heartfelt storytelling, and community engagement, creating an unforgettable weekend dedicated to helping vulnerable animals find safe and loving homes. Guests experienced an immersive program featuring a luxury fashion show, luncheon, live auction, and the emotional highlight of the weekend, a canine runway show featuring adoptable rescue dogs.

Photo Credit: Big Dog Ranch Rescue

Leading the celebration were several prominent figures who helped amplify the cause and bring national attention to the work of Big Dog Ranch Rescue. Among the notable attendees were board member and honorary chair Lara Trump, actress and passionate animal advocate Katherine Heigl, renowned dog behaviorist Cesar Millan, and television personality Jeanine Pirro. Their presence underscored the growing national support for animal rescue initiatives and helped spotlight the organization’s ongoing mission to save thousands of dogs each year.

Photo Credit: Big Dog Ranch Rescue

The weekend also showcased an impressive lineup of global fashion talent. Designers Anne Fontaine and Nardos Imam presented stunning runway collections as part of the event’s signature fashion show, combining style and philanthropy in a celebration that captivated the audience. In a particularly heartwarming moment, rescue dogs joined the runway in a special canine fashion segment styled by Surf Souleil and sponsored by the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, giving guests the chance to meet adoptable animals while highlighting the importance of rescue and adoption.

Photo Credit: Big Dog Ranch Rescue

Photo Credit: Big Dog Ranch Rescue

At the center of the organization’s impact is founder Lauree Simmons, whose dedication has transformed Big Dog Ranch Rescue into one of the most influential animal rescue organizations in the United States. Since its founding in 2008, the nonprofit has rescued and saved more than 88,000 dogs, providing medical care, rehabilitation, and placement into loving homes. The organization’s work extends far beyond rescue operations, with programs focused on education, responsible pet ownership, and legislation aimed at protecting animals nationwide.

Photo Credit: Big Dog Ranch Rescue

One of the most meaningful initiatives supported through the organization’s fundraising efforts is its Veterans Service Dog Training Program. This specialized program trains rescue dogs to become service animals for veterans living with disabilities, providing companionship, emotional support, and practical assistance that helps improve their quality of life. To date, the program has successfully trained and placed more than 230 service dogs with veterans, demonstrating the profound impact that rescued animals can have when given a second chance.

Photo Credit: Big Dog Ranch Rescue

The remarkable success of this year’s event reflects not only the generosity of attendees but also the growing recognition of animal welfare as a cause that unites communities. Founder Lauree Simmons described the weekend as a powerful display of compassion and collaboration, emphasizing how supporters from across the country came together to champion the mission of saving dogs and giving them a new beginning.

Photo Credit: Big Dog Ranch Rescue

Beyond the glamorous setting and star-studded guest list, the heart of the celebration remained firmly focused on the animals whose lives will be transformed by the funds raised during the weekend. Each donation contributes to rescue missions, veterinary care, shelter operations, and adoption programs that provide dogs with safety, healing, and ultimately a loving family.

As Big Dog Ranch Rescue continues to expand its reach and impact, events like Wine, Women & Shoes play a vital role in sustaining its lifesaving work. The extraordinary $5.5 million raised during this year’s fundraiser marks the largest total in the event’s history and signals an inspiring level of support for the organization’s mission to end dog homelessness and abuse.

Photo Credit: Big Dog Ranch Rescue

With momentum stronger than ever, supporters are already looking ahead to the next chapter of this beloved philanthropic tradition. The organization has announced that the next Wine, Women & Shoes celebration will return to Palm Beach on March 6–7, 2027, promising another unforgettable weekend dedicated to fashion, community, and giving dogs the chance at a brighter future.