[WEST PALM BEACH, FL] March 10, 2026 — During her year of service, Miss America 2026 Cassie Donegan champions initiatives that uplift communities across the country—from Alaska to Maine. But few causes are closer to her heart than caring for animals. During a recent visit to West Palm Beach, Florida, the proud dog owner made a special stop at Big Dog Ranch Rescue, the nation’s largest cage-free, no-kill dog rescue.
Founded on the belief that every dog deserves a second chance, Big Dog Ranch Rescue has been transforming lives since 2008. Through its commitment to rescue, rehabilitation, and education, the organization has saved more than 88,000 dogs.
Cassie was welcomed by Founder and President Lauree Simmons, who provided a private tour of the ranch. The visit offered Cassie a firsthand look at the organization’s mission—to Rescue, Rehabilitate, and Educate until every dog has a loving and safe place to call home—and the life-changing work happening on the ground each day.
The impact of Big Dog Ranch Rescue continues to grow. Since its founding, 88,000 dogs have been rescued and saved and 200 rescue dogs have been paired with veterans. In 2025 alone, 8,169 dogs were rescued and 4,062 spay and neuter surgeries were performed.
During the tour, Cassie met several of the dogs currently being cared for at the ranch and spoke with staff about the rescue and rehabilitation process. As a dog owner herself, she was eager to learn more about the work that goes into helping each dog recover and eventually find a permanent, loving home.
To learn more about Big Dog Ranch Rescue and the dogs available for adoption, visit bdrr.org.
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