06/30/2025
💛 🐕 Meet the Team 🐕 💛
Debbie Ragan
Intake Volunteer for Surrendered Goldens
With 30 years of volunteer experience across various dog rescue organizations, I’ve always been driven by the core mission of saving dogs. What sets GRRoM apart, however, is not just our shared passion for rescuing animals, but the strong sense of community among our dedicated volunteers. The kindness and support we offer one another is something truly special.
Throughout my time volunteering, I’ve had the privilege of fostering approximately 50 dogs, including Bouvier des Flandres, mixed breeds, and, in recent years, Golden Retrievers. While I regret not keeping a file with photos of each dog, the memories of their transformations and their impacts on my life are forever etched in my heart.
When we lost our last Bouvier suddenly to cancer, the void left behind was deeply felt. In an effort to restore some routine to our lives, we decided to foster a Golden Retriever. Just a few weeks into fostering, he became the beloved couch companion I had always hoped for, and he quickly turned into a permanent member of our family.
In my current role as an intake volunteer, I find the work incredibly rewarding. As the first point of contact for individuals surrendering their Goldens, I take the time to ask thoughtful questions about the dogs and their backgrounds. I often hear heartbreaking stories of the challenges their owners are facing. While I can’t change the circumstances, I find comfort in reassuring them that their dog will be placed in a safe, loving home, and that I am helping to ease one burden from their lives.
