A BIT ABOUT US

Turning Interest Into Action

The Saint Bernard Rescue Group was established to improve the quality of life for St. Bernards that need permanent rehoming. In doing so, we work with a large network of volunteers across north america to educate the public on the breed, reduce over breeding and take action against the inhumane treatment of St. Bernard's

Saint Bernard Rescue Group was founded in 2010, by our president C. K.  Lewis and came into fruition after she adopted, Moose, a four year old St. Bernard. C.K  is a philanthropist and a behaviorist, trainer and foster for a national XXL breed rescue and was leaving one day to pick up Moose who was being surrendered to the rescue.  When she first looked upon Moose, he was terrified, 115 pounds, covered in ticks and fleas and was suspected to have severe hip dysplasia. He was so shut down. This first encounter with Moose made her realize that even this expensive breed could be neglected and mistreated and lead her to take action.

That first encounter with Moose, spawned a campaign for advocacy, education and rescue.  Now today, Moose is a happy and healthy 175 pound dog who does therapy work for nursing homes and rescues.

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St. Bernards were exported into England in the mid-1800s, and were first referred to as the "Sacred Dog." By 1865, the breed was commonly referred to as Saint Bernard, and was registered by the American Kennel Club in 1885. At this time, U.S. dog lovers took a fancy to the breed, making the Saint Bernard extremely popular by 1900. The dog remains one of the most popular giant breeds today. This is why St. Bernard Rescue Groups cause is so important. These beautiful dogs, once breed for rescue, or now commercialized by breeders, are the first to be euthanized often in shelters due to how much it takes to feed and cared for them, and to often rehomed due to their size and stature.

In 2016, Saint Bernard Rescue Group reached a benchmark having recorded rehoming over 300 St. Bernard’s. As a national participant in the no-kill movement, Saint Bernard Rescue Group is committed to saving and rehabilitating the lives of Saint Bernards and educating the public about the joys and responsibilities of rescue throughout the US.

Our primary goal is the permanent placement of St. Bernard's to loving and permanent homes. We are one of the largest, most comprehensive no-kill rescue and adoption organizations for St. Bernard's in the US, with many shelters and rescue partners across the country. Located in Westminster, MD, we rescue, nurture, and adopt thousands of pets annually into responsible, loving homes, plus assist in the adoptions of thousands more through our national partnerships.

Our rescue is funded solely by  our founder, C.K Lewis and private donations from our patrons.  Please email saintsrgreat6@gmail.com for our annual report.