When a car hit Jody and Mike Jones’s beloved dog Chelsea, they promised that—if she pulled through—they would dedicate their lives to rescue. Following a full recovery, they made good on their word with the foundation of Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue and Sanctuary, a volunteer-run nonprofit that heals displaced, abandoned and homeless golden retrievers, regardless of age or health. The sanctuary itself is situated on eight sprawling acres in Sutter County and features a dog dorm, on-site veterinary clinic, pool for water therapy and training pavilion. Following rehabilitation, a comprehensive screening process ensures that every adoptable golden finds a safe and loving home, while those that can’t be adopted receive lifetime sanctuary. “Rescue,” Jody says, “[not only] transforms the lives of dogs but also of the people involved in the effort. It has certainly transformed my life and earned me a wide and extended family...When the days are long and the work sometimes very hard, this gives me strength and a great sense of pride and joy.” Since it was founded in 2000, Homeward Bound has successfully secured forever homes for more than 7,400 dogs with the help of some 200 volunteers and countless adopters. As they look to the future, volunteers like Justina Codde, DVM, MS, are eager to see the expansion of senior dog adoption efforts and the weekly youth program, a unique opportunity for teens to care for rescued goldens under the supervision of seasoned volunteers. “We are very fortunate to have many longtime volunteers who happen to be retirees, but that means we need to look ahead and plan for the future,” explains Codde, who has donated her veterinary services to Homeward Bound since 2004 and currently serves on its board. “That’s my wish and my hope—more people coming through those gates to volunteer and keep our mission going.”

homewardboundgoldens.org

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