Deborah Graham from Ranch Hands Rescue and Happy Tails Dog Club members at the Oct. 11 meeting
Lorraine Wilson
On Oct. 11 the Happy Tails Dog Club welcomed guest speaker Deborah Graham, director of the Animal Sanctuary at Ranch Hands Rescue, a program of Bob’s House of Hope. Ranch Hands Rescue is known for taking on some of the most severe cases of farm animal abuse and neglect—what they call “the worst of the worst.”
The sanctuary is home to an extraordinary mix of animals, including horses, pigs, goats, sheep, donkeys, cats, and even a dog. While they occasionally provide sanctuary for special-needs dogs and cats, their primary mission is rescuing and rehabilitating farm animals who have nowhere else to go.
Graham, who oversees the care of all animals at the Ranch, shared remarkable stories of resilience and compassion. One dog with only one leg now walks proudly on three prosthetic limbs. A miniature horse, missing a hoof from birth, was also fitted with a prosthetic leg and continued to live happily at the Ranch. Each animal has a story of survival—many rescued from neglect, cruelty, or situations where euthanasia seemed the only option.
At Ranch Hands Rescue, these animals are given a second chance in a safe, loving environment. But their role extends beyond recovery. They also become healers themselves. The sanctuary partners with Bob’s House of Hope, a residential program that supports young adult survivors of human trafficking. The residents help care for the animals, forming bonds that foster trust, empathy, and emotional healing on both sides.
The Happy Tails Dog Club’s annual Holiday Pet Photo fundraiser took place on Nov. 8 at the CATC building, drawing wagging tails and festive smiles. The morning featured Santa, played by Paul Vivaldi, posing with dogs for photos, while the afternoon was reserved for portraits of the pets alone.
The event’s success was made possible by the hard work of volunteers Janey Pauley, Teresa McGill, Lorraine Handel, and Lorraine Wilson. Photographer Donna Steibel once again captured the holiday spirit with her excellent photos.
Looking ahead, club members are preparing for their annual Holiday Party on Saturday, Dec. 6, hosted at a member’s home. Always a favorite, the event promises great food, laughter, and the much-anticipated “white-dog” gift exchange where at least one item always sparks a friendly competition.
VP of Events Teresa McGill is already planning an engaging lineup of speakers for 2026. January’s meeting will feature Canine Dimensions In-Home Dog Training, with a presentation on the benefits of in-home training. In February, Karin Saucedo from Song Dog Watch will discuss coyote behavior and ways to coexist with our wild neighbors. The March meeting will feature local resident and retired veterinarian Dr. Steve Menzies who will host an “Ask the Vet” question-and-answer session, which is sure to be very informative.
Happy Tails Dog Club meets on the second Saturday of each month at 10:30 a.m. in the CATC building. Membership is open to residents, with annual dues of $10 per household. For more information, visit www.rrhappytailsdogclub.weebly.com.