Sonoran Desert Dog Rescue (SDDR) was founded by a small group of dog lovers in Ajo, Arizona, located in Pima County. With a dedicated board and a community of passionate volunteers, 100% of our fundraising efforts go directly toward the rehabilitation and care of rescued dogs.
On the American side of the international border wall, many abandoned and starving dogs had no one to help them—until now. That’s where SDDR steps in. While several rescues assist dogs on the Mexican side, the dogs on the U.S. side were left without hope.
Many of these dogs have heartbreaking stories. Some are abandoned at the border due to immigration challenges, others are displaced by cartel violence in Sonoyta, Mexico, and some are simply victims of difficult times. Despite their struggles, we are constantly amazed by their resilience and will to survive.
The harsh climate of Southern Arizona makes survival even more difficult. Scorching summers can reach temperatures of 120°F, while winter nights drop below freezing. Without reliable access to food and water, these dogs face impossible odds.
When we find them, many are severely malnourished, with terrible skin diseases. There are mothers with newborn puppies, while others have tragically lost their litters to predators. We rescue dogs of all shapes and sizes—big and small, young and old, mixed breeds and purebreds. Some come to us willingly, while others, too frightened to trust, must be gently trapped using humane cages.
SDDR works tirelessly with volunteers to rescue these dogs, providing them with love, compassionate care, and critical medical attention.
Our dedicated foster network offers these dogs safe, temporary homes while we search for their perfect forever families. We are committed to finding each dog a loving home that meets their unique needs.
Because every dog deserves the chance to find their forever human.
Your support makes all the difference. You can help by donating, fostering, or volunteering. Every small contribution goes a long way in saving lives.
Your donations help support every aspect of our rescue efforts. Donations go towards the vast amounts of medical care these dogs need coming out of the desert or off the border wall. Donations also help with good quality dog food, training treats, leashes, collars and crates. We fund the fuel for the 100 mile trips down to the Sonoran Desert only if there is extra….. and there never is. So Barb pays for most fuel out of pocket.
We are currently foster-home based, in that we don't have a "brick and mortar" shelter. We do provide our foster homes with everything they need to keep the dogs safe, comfortable, and fed.
In addition to monetary donations, there are many other ways to help. We always need volunteers and foster families to care for dogs until they find permanent homes. If you have skills or services related to dog care, or a desire to learn….we welcome your support.
As a newly-established 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we rely on your generosity to give these dogs a second chance at a loving forever home.
VOLUNTEER or QUESTIONS
Call: 707-972-7692
For donations please ZELLE to 707-485-4703
YOUR DONATIONS KEEP THESE DOGS ALIVE GIVING THEM FOREVER HOMES THEY DESPERATELY NEED
To mail donations:
SDDR
PO Box 23
Ajo, Arizona 85321
| Name | Dog's Information & Notes |
|---|---|
| Precious | She is the sister of Twinkie and she also a 18 month old part Shepard lab, she was rescued on the American side of the border in Lukeville. She has never been housed 24/7, she is also currently in training and is quite successful. She is well socialized |
| Twinkie | An 18 month old part Shepard lab, she was rescued on the American side of the border in Lukeville. She has never been housed 24/7, she is currently in training and is quite successful. She is well socialized. |
| Mother | She is the mother of several of our pupies. |
Barb Jones, 64, is a retired truck driver and former owner/operator from Northern California. After selling her rig, she moved to Southern Arizona during COVID. While volunteering with Humane Borders, a humanitarian aid organization, Barb discovered a heartbreaking need at the border wall on the American side—many abandoned and starving dogs needing rescue. Inspired to help, she became dedicated to giving these dogs a second chance. Barb’s daughter is currently pursuing a PhD in black bear research at the University of Georgia.
Ms. Bear, a Southern California native, spent 25 years serving as General Counsel and Deputy General Counsel for the President’s Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) in Washington, D.C. In this role, she guided environmental policies and oversaw the implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act across the executive branch. Alongside her environmental work, she has been deeply involved in border issues, focusing on both environmental impacts and humanitarian efforts, including border barriers and preventing migrant deaths. She now enjoys life in Tucson, Arizona.
