Life is short, and time is precious. This summarizes my perspective as a senior woman and that of adoption-disadvantaged old dogs; hence, the parallels run deep. During the Christmas season of 2019, Rhonda Minardi had an epiphany that would forever change the Texas animal welfare landscape and forge a human pathway of kindness, compassion, and Love.On a deeper level, fond memories of Tinker Toys and Playdough offering endless hours of childhood joy are rekindled by volunteering with the Living Grace Canine Ranch organization. A natural curiosity about creating something from nothing, combined with a lifetime of talents and skills, has been intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually rewarding.In the public's eye, Living Grace Canine Ranch has earned the 'Where Love Resides' tagline for senior dogs with medical, physical, and emotional challenges. Whereas skilled caregiving is performed by staff, volunteers support the pillars of Love through hands-on canine companionship at the Bertram sanctuary, community event ambassadors, or, like myself, contribute from the convenience of home.Saving, serving, and valuing Life's journey is not only LGCR's mission but mine. Because Life is short and time is precious.
LGCR is an amazing experience. I have volunteered with them for the last few years and when you go to the ranch, you can tell that they put their heart and souls into what they do to care for their fur babies. Each one is given the attention that they deserve. Also, if you haven't seen their informational post about how to care for senior dogs, you definitely need to follow and read. I have had dogs for years and senior dogs but their tips are bits of information that I have never heard but incredibly helpful. Take your work team to volunteer....I guarantee that your team will love it.
I read about Rhonda Minardi, the founder of Living Grace Canine Ranch, in the Austin newspaper. I knew immediately I had to be a part of her amazing vision - a sanctuary for senior dogs. I think when I joined 3 years ago as a volunteer, Rhonda had just a few dogs and a huge vision. I began helping write thank you notes for donations and now I'm the Events Coordinator for Living Grace.
Senior dogs are provided medical care, emotional support and lots of love from Rhonda, the employees of Living Grace and many volunteers. Our volunteers are such a blessing. Everyone is willing to do what needs to be done to help keep our seniors' home perfect for them, from laundry, poop patrol, hugs, cuddles, feeding and anything else that is necessary to help take good care of our seniors. We have many of our seniors because their pet parent passed away or is in assisted living, they have been injured or lost, whatever the reason, Living Grace is there to make their last years their best years.
I'm proud to be a part of such a wonderful mission and I look forward to more outstanding things Rhonda will do to make this sanctuary an example for all senior dog care.
Living Grace Canine Ranch has become a huge part of my life. Volunteering there as a cuddler brings so much joy to me, especially since I identify so closely with the senior dogs. I, too, am a senior, and I know how important it is to feel loved as well as needed. Another big plus is that I am able to participate in the senior-to-senior furever foster program. I now have living with me a small furry 15-year-old deaf and mostly blind dog named Penny. She is teaching me so much about how to keep going despite handicaps and hardship. Penny and I never have to worry about her getting the best medical care, and she will finish her life’s journey knowing she was loved not only by me, but by the many residents, volunteers, and staff who make Living Grace Canine Ranch so special.
Wow! This place is a one of a kind dog sanctuary for older dogs! The volunteers are many, and all love spending time with the dogs fortunate enough to land there. The pups get loved on and exercised by dedicated staff and volunteers. People who tour the ranch are amazed at the love and care the dogs receive. This place is special and all the dogs and humans there know it!
I am involved with Living Grace Canine Ranch as a volunteer, donor, and board member. LGCR is a haven and forever home for senior canines without hope of surviving their golden years. I have witnessed its tremendous and rapid growth in terms of the number of dogs served and in its community outreach activities and education to the public regarding this so often neglected and forgotten group of human companions. The ranch provides superior all-around care for each dog, including regular medical and dental care, grooming, exercise, and regular human interaction in a loving and comfortable environment. Rhonda Minardi, Founder and CEO is a visionary thinker and champion of our mission. The staff and volunteers are dedicated, compassionate, and overall terrific. LGCR is not only a “forever home” for the residents but also a “forever home” for me as a volunteer and supporter.
Living Grace Canine Ranch greets everyone who crosses the gates with “Where Love Resides”, this is not just a slogan but is a testament to the core values of the Ranch. Not only does the ranch provide a loving, nurturing palliative care safe haven for dogs that would otherwise be forgotten, it provides a sense of pride, purpose and accomplishment for all who selflessly donate time and other much needed resources to the cause. The founder and board members dedicate themselves to running the ranch with the highest ethical values to both volunteers and the senior residents. I am passionate about this organization. I would often donate much needed supplies or make monetary donations but then became an active volunteer since January 2023. It has been a fulfilling and life changing experience for me.
In all my years of volunteer work, I've never seen such a cohesive group that is completely and absolutely devoted to the care, safety, and health of senior dogs! Anytime I've been to a shelter or to a rescue group, the senior dogs always seem to be left out because so many people want puppies. I have a soft spot for senior dogs and would adopt them all if I was able! Instead, I donate my time and money to a cause that cares so deeply for these dogs - they want for nothing!! This truly is one of the best organizations I've ever seen!!
Living grace canine ranch in Bertram, TX, is a haven for senior dogs. It provides them with another chance to live out their senior years with love, kindness, and compassion. It’s truly wonderful what has been accomplished by the founder, Rhonda Minardi with the help of the board of directors and volunteers.
Living Grace Canine Ranch is an awesome organization.
The ranch is home to senior dogs who have no home. One of the very first things I saw when I visited was how loved all the dogs are.
They are taken care of and so loved.
I volunteer! I have volunteered since late 2020 - when they opened.
This sanctuary has recognized and embraced the need of senior dogs for loving care and attention - physically, mentally and medically.
The ranch places the highest priority on the well being of the dogs. It is cleaned every day, the dogs are monitored for all issues, and have human touch.
Living Grace Canine Ranch has a large contingent of volunteers who do everything and anything needed. Laundry, cleaning, database management, fund raise, and most important - love on the dogs.