We believe in creating a refuge for those in need of a second chance. Living Free is a home for all, a place where you can hear animals playing, people laughing and hearts healing.
Emily Jo Beard had a vision – to create a sanctuary where abandoned, abused and neglected animals would be safely housed, cage free, until they could find a loving home. She believed in freedom and reverence for all life, and that justice was not meant for humankind alone, but also for animal-kind. To her, dominion over the animals meant guardianship, not power and tyranny. The courage to stand up for the rights of animals did not mean physical courage, but moral courage. Emily’s compassion still inspires us, and each life saved is a tribute to her legacy.
For thousands of years, our site was home to the Cahuilla Indians who left behind archaeological evidence in the many morteros and petroglyphs that can be found on the property. We have taken steps to protect these sites and the Cahuilla legacy. In the early 1900s, John Keen bought the property developed it into a camp. His family built a resort known as Tahquitz Lodge that was used as a location for filmmaking featuring Mary Pickford, Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, John Wayne, Elvis Presley and Katharine Hepburn. Since then, it has been a cattle ranch, a logging camp, a stagecoach stop, a mountain retreat and film location for the 1920's Hollywood elite.
Mission and Vision
We rescue, rehabilitate and find permanent homes for healthy dogs and cats whose time is up at public shelters. We are also home to War Horse Creek, an immersive transition training program using rescued wild mustangs to assist veterans as they adjust to civilian life.
Once the rescues arrive here, they go through a full medical exam and receive treatment, they are spayed and neutered if necessary, and they are then provided a safe, cage-free rehabilitation, socialized and prepared for adoption.
Adoption Policy
THE ADOPTION PROCESS
If you see a dog you’d like to meet, submit an application via the ShelterLuv database and one of our Animal Caregivers will contact you.– Plan a visit to Mountain Center to meet the dog.– Allow 1-2 hours for your visit. You’ll want to spend time playing, walking and really getting to know the animal.– Meet with one of our dedicated, knowledgeable Animal Caregivers who can evaluate the match between you and the potential adoptee.If you have any questions, you can Email Us or call (951) 321-9982. You’re welcome to bring your dog(s) to meet the new one you’re interested in adopting. We do not hold any animals. Adoptions are processed on a first come, first served basis. You must be 19 years or older and provide proof of residence.
https://living-free.org/adopt-a-pet/dog-adoption/
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David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development.
David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners.
Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature.
David is based in Salem, MA.
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