🐾 Rescue of the Month: US Dog Coalition & Rescue

This month, we are honored to spotlight US Dog Coalition & Rescue, an organization whose roots began far from North Carolina—at the base of a waterfall in Copper Canyon, Mexico. What started as a moment of heartbreak for founder Wilma Herrera has grown into a powerful, life-changing mission that now spans two countries and countless dogs.

🌎 A Story Born at a Waterfall

The story begins at Cascada de Cusarare, where Wilma was simply a tourist taking in the beauty of the mountains and rushing water. But the scenery wasn’t the only thing that caught her attention. All around her were street dogs—puppies, seniors, pregnant mothers—each struggling to survive without food, shelter, or care.

Wilma did what many of us would do: she fed them. But she quickly realized that a meal was only a temporary comfort. Their suffering would continue long after she left.

Then came the moment that changed everything.

She met a small dog—skin and bones, covered in mange, fighting parasites, and simply trying to rest in the sun. Tourists walked past him without a glance. Wilma wanted desperately to help, but with no veterinary care for hours and no way to intervene, she had to leave him behind.

That moment broke her heart and it became the spark that built US Dog Coalition & Rescue.

🐶 From One Dog to a Movement

Wilma returned home determined to do more. She founded a 501(c)(3) rescue, began pulling dogs from overcrowded U.S. shelters, and partnered with rescuers in Mexico to bring street dogs to safety.

Today, US Dog Coalition & Rescue operates with a twofold mission:

• Locally: They rescue dogs from high-kill shelters and accept owner surrenders.

• Internationally: They work with partners in Mexico to save street dogs who have no other chance.

Their mission is clear and powerful: To improve the lives of street dogs in Mexico and the U.S. through rescue, nourishment, spay/neuter initiatives, and community education.

💛 Community Programs That Change Lives

This rescue doesn’t just save dogs—they strengthen communities.

Duncan’s Spay, Neuter & Care Initiative

North Carolina is facing a serious overpopulation crisis, with one of the highest shelter euthanasia rates in the country. At US Dog Coalition & Rescue, they understand that you can’t rescue your way out of this. Real change starts with prevention.

That’s how Duncan’s Legacy: Spay, Neuter & Care Initiative was created—a program that helps dog owners who want to spay or neuter their pets but can’t afford the cost. By removing financial barriers, we’re reducing shelter intake, supporting families, and giving dogs a better chance at a healthy, stable life.

Training for Fosters & Adopters

The secret to successful placements requires support, guidance, and leadership.

Kids for Canines (K4C)

Launching soon, this youth program (ages 5–17) will teach compassion, animal welfare, and responsible pet care. It’s the next generation of advocates in the making.

🐾 Featured Dog of the Month: Hattie

Breed: American Staffordshire

Age: 2 years

Rescued from a high-kill shelter at just 5 months old, Hattie’s story is one of resilience. When she arrived, it became clear she had been subjected to failed “bite dog” training—an attempt to make her aggressive. Instead, it left her fearful and confused.

With patience, structure, and the help of Angier K9, Hattie learned that people aren’t a threat. She’s blossomed into a dog who deserves the loving, stable home she was once denied. If you are interested in meeting this wonderful girl, apply to meet her below:

https://www.adoptapet.com/pet/44907348-fuquay-varina-american-staffordshire-terrier-mix

🏆 Every Dog Is a Success Story

US Dog Coalition & Rescue believes that every adoption is a win. Even when challenges arise, they work closely with adopters to resolve issues, rebuild trust, and prevent returns. Their commitment doesn’t end at adoption—it continues for the lifetime of the dog.

🤝 How You Can Support Their Mission

The rescue’s biggest challenge is too many dogs, not enough fosters.

Here’s how you can help:

• Become a foster — their greatest need

• Donate quality dog food

• Support their programs

• Attend their events (listed at www.usdogcoalition.org/events)

• Share their mission with your community

If you can’t foster, you can still make a meaningful impact through donations or volunteering.

📣 Final Thoughts

US Dog Coalition & Rescue is proof that one moment of compassion can ripple outward into a movement that saves lives across borders. Their work is fueled by heart, resilience, and a deep belief that every dog deserves safety, nourishment, and love.

We’re proud to honor them as our Rescue of the Month and to shine a light on the incredible work they do every single day. For more information, visit them at https://www.usdogcoalition.org/