Not every animal is ready for adoption the moment they enter a shelter. Some come from hard places where love was scarce, trust was fragile, and life offered few opportunities to thrive. These pets need more than a quick once-over in a crowded kennel; they need time, space, and care to rediscover who they are.
That’s exactly what Eastwood Ranch Rescue and Adoption Center in Agoura Hills offers.
Take Tommy, for example.
Way back in October of 2024, a joyful, high-energy Border Collie mix named Tommy arrived at our Ranch. With a serious vertical leap and an even bigger heart, Tommy had all the makings of a lovable companion, but his past told a different story. Long hours in a crate, minimal exercise, and little attention left him anxious and underprepared for life with a family.
Still, Tommy’s spark remained undeniable.
From the very first day, he lit up our play yard bounding toward volunteers, nudging anyone willing into a round of fetch, and charming his way into every heart. But he needed help. With consistency, training, and lots of love, Tommy began to blossom. He learned how to trust, how to listen, and how to be the incredible dog we always knew he could be.
Foster extraordinaire Wendy DeBerry welcomed him into her home and became his biggest champion. With her gentle guidance, Tommy gained confidence and showed his true personality to countless potential adopters. And then, at our July 12 adoption event at Just Food for Dogs, everything changed.
Tommy met his people.
They saw him. Not his past, not his nerves. Just him: sweet, silly, devoted, and ready to be loved.
Today, Tommy (now “Boots”) is living his best life with hiking trails, chasing tennis balls, and soaking up all the affection he deserves. It’s a joyful ending built on time, patience, and belief.
And it’s why Eastwood Ranch does what it does.
We rescue animals from high-kill shelters and give them what city shelters often can’t provide; time to decompress, relax, and let their true personalities shine through. No rush. No pressure. Just love.
But we can’t do it alone. We need your help.
Right now, our Double The Love Campaign is in full swing—running through September, and every dollar you donate will be matched dollar for dollar up to $500,000. That means twice the impact. Twice the second chances. Twice the happy endings.
Let’s give more dogs like Tommy the chance they need to find their forever families. Because time isn’t just a luxury…it’s lifesaving.
