Our Why, Rocky’s Story

Our rescue was founded in honor and memory of Rocky - a Great Dane we fought desperately to save in June 2013. Despite countless calls, urgent pleas, offers of rehabilitation, and a secured placement ready for him, Rocky was needlessly euthanized on June 12, 2013.

From that moment forward, we made a promise: every dog we rescue will receive the care, advocacy, and second chance that Rocky was denied. The Great Danes we save are his legacy.

Rocky was only three years old when he was surrendered to the Hernando County Animal Shelter in Brooksville, Florida on June 1, 2013. His owner — who had adopted him from that same shelter just one year prior — requested euthanasia after a reported bite involving her boyfriend. Following a mandatory 10-day quarantine, his life was scheduled to end.

But Rocky’s path had been mishandled before. In May 2012, he and another Dane named Emma had been tagged by a rescue for placement. While waiting for transport, the shelter allowed them to be adopted out separately, canceling those rescue plans and altering the course of Rocky’s life.

When we learned of his situation in 2013, we were ready. We secured a peaceful seven-acre ranch where Rocky would have been the only dog, given space, time, structure, and experienced rehabilitation support. We offered professional behavioral assessments. We asked for access. We pleaded for collaboration.

The shelter refused. Our rescue was denied. Our experts were blocked from evaluating him.

On June 12, 2013, Rocky was euthanized — not because hope was absent, but because it was refused.

His death was preventable. And it changed us forever.

Rocky’s story did gain media attention, but publicity cannot undo what was done. What it did do was ignite a mission. We founded this rescue so that no other Great Dane would lose their life simply because no one was willing to advocate loudly enough or fight long enough.

Every life we save is a promise kept to Rocky. Every transport arranged, every medical bill covered, every scared dog given time to decompress — that is his impact.

If you ever see a dog in need like Rocky, please share their story. Speak up. Get involved. Your voice could be the difference between a life lost and a life saved.

Thank you for standing with us — and for helping ensure that Rocky’s legacy lives on through every second chance we give.

About Us

  • Team Rocky Enterprises Inc., DBA Save Rocky the Great Dane Rescue and Rehab, is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and re-homing of Great Danes, Great Dane mixes, and other giant-breed dogs.

    We focus on helping dogs who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned, giving them the medical care, training, and love they need to recover and thrive in permanent, loving homes.

  • We are a nationwide rescue, operating in every state across the United States - except Massachusetts - and proudly based in Texas. Our lifesaving work is made possible entirely by a team of dedicated volunteers whose passion and commitment allow us to reach Great Danes and other giant breeds wherever help is needed.

    We truly couldn’t do this work without them.

  • Team Rocky Enterprises Inc. (DBA Save Rocky the Great Dane Rescue and Rehab) is proud to be recognized for our integrity and transparency. We hold a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar, the highest level awarded by the nation’s leading source of nonprofit information.

    This designation means you can give and support with confidence, knowing exactly how your contributions are used to save lives and support our mission.

    Tax ID (EIN): 99-3424400
    Mailing Address: P.O. Box 975, Bullard, TX 75757
    Email: srgdrr.inc@gmail.com

    When you support our rescue, you’re not just donating - you’re joining a trusted mission built on accountability, compassion, and real, measurable impact.

  • Our goal is to work alongside animal shelters, humane societies, and fellow rescues to protect Great Danes and other giant breeds by helping them find safe, loving forever homes.

    But our mission doesn’t stop at rescue. We are equally committed to educating the public about responsible pet ownership—including the importance of spaying and neutering, proper veterinary care, and meeting the unique nutritional needs of pets. Through education, we can help reduce overpopulation, neglect, and needless suffering.

    We invite you to help us extend our reach. By sharing our rescue with your family and friends, you help raise awareness and create a brighter future for Great Danes—and all breeds.

    No matter how small it may seem, your support makes a meaningful impact. Together, we can change lives, one gentle giant at a time.

  • Team Rocky Enterprises Inc. (DBA Save Rocky the Great Dane Rescue and Rehab) is funded entirely through donations, adoption contributions, and fundraising efforts. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, your donations are tax-deductible, and every dollar goes directly toward rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming Great Danes and other giant breeds in need.

    There are many ways you can make a difference:

    • Donate: Whether large or small, every contribution has a real impact.

    • Support with items: Give from our wishlist to help with the daily care of our dogs.

    • Volunteer: Offer your time and talents to help us save more lives.

    Thank you for caring about these incredible dogs and supporting our mission. Your generosity changes lives — one gentle giant at a time.