Our Story
Why we Started
Saving Sully Dog Rescue was founded by five dog-loving women when they realized that a life without saving dogs is simply not a life they would want for themselves. Each woman had experience volunteering with multiple rescues and aiding in life-saving work. This experience was transformed into belief when they realized that the joy of their first rescues #freedomrides was more powerful than the doubt and fear of the things which came ahead. Thus, they took their vision and reached out to their incredible family, friends, and even strangers who jumped in to help bring Saving Sully Dog Rescue to life.
Since the start of Saving Sully in 2018, the rescue has expanded beyond belief, meaning more dogs have been saved than we ever could have imagined. The rescue is now being directed by six board members who have set out to continue the mission of Saving Sully Dog Rescue, while creating a community that advocates for lasting change.
Meet the Men Who Started it All
Sam's (founder) Sully
Sam first met Sully when he was brought up to Wisconsin after battling, and defeating, Parvovirus. Sam met strong little Sully, and despite already having three large rescue dogs, fell in love instantly and knew Sully would be very loved in her family for the rest of his days.
"Rescued dogs are not broken. They've simply experienced more life than others. If they were humans, we'd call them wise. They would be the ones with tales to tell and stories to write; the ones who were dealt bad hands, but had the courage to survive. "
Jessie's (founder) Sully
Jessie first met Sully when he was 3 days old, malnourished, and suffocating from aspirate pneumonia and battling a birth deformity called a cleft palate. His chances of survival were slim to none, however, it was a challenge Jessie wanted to take on. The first few months consisted of tube feedings every 2 hours, hours in the oxygen tank, and prayers. She consulted the Oral Surgeon Team at University of Madison for the best route to get Sully's mouth fixed. They had a great plan and he just needed to grow enough to be a candidate for repair. Finally after many hurdles and sleepless nights it was surgery day! Sully was so brave, healed quickly, and was ready for his next adventure in life. Sully turned three in September 2018 and has helped show Jessie to never give up, even on the dogs that do not look like the stand a chance.