After experiencing difficulty in finding a home for her father's aging Doberman, Valerie Reid, 44, established the nonprofit Dog Sanctuary in Hermitage, Missouri in 2017.
She recalls, 'My wife and I were at the city's pet restriction and couldn't take him in. We searched everywhere to see if there were any rescues that could help bring the Doberman home.'
Dogs that have been in the shelter too long or whose owners are elderly or deceased will be adopted by Valerie.
"Valerie, the chairwoman of the charity, said, "The dogs lived with us openly and shuttled between the two buildings. They came with us wherever we went and were treated as part of the family. The best part is the transformation they experience when they realize they are safe and loved."
Around five dogs are taken in each week, with a similar number passing away.
Prior to establishing the Sanctuary in 2017, Valerie worked as a kitchen remodeler and owned an interior design shop for approximately 12 years."
Valerie bonded with her husband Josh Reed (42) when she left Kansas City, Missouri for their current Hermitage property.
The house has 3,000 square meters, and there is a 1,700 square meter building to house the dog. Valerie contacted the local veterinarian to help pay for the medical bills.
The child's mother expressed that the reserve had gone beyond her expectations and she was amazed to witness the affection and care that many children had for it.
Kind Valerie currently employs a staff of approximately 17 full-time members and provides 24-hour nursing and on-site inpatient services. Dogs who come from other shelters, or whose owners go into nursing homes or pass away, have nowhere else to go.
They love both toys and treats and are free to roam the 5 fenced acres or relax in one of the many dog beds scattered around the property.
