At Doodle Dandy Rescue, some volunteers are the quiet force that keeps everything moving — coordinating details, solving problems, and ensuring every dog gets where they need to be safely and efficiently. Mikaela Elizondo is one of those incredible behind-the-scenes heroes.

This month, we’re proud to shine our Volunteer Spotlight on someone whose leadership, heart, and dedication have shaped the Houston region in extraordinary ways: Jordan Orta, Houston’s Lead and a volunteer admired by everyone who works with her!

Ever wonder what it really looks like when a Doodle Dandy Rescue pup enters foster care? Here’s the behind‑the‑scenes path every dog takes on their way to a forever family — a journey filled with healing, structure, patience, and so much love. Every step matters, and every dog moves at the pace that’s right for them.

At Doodle Dandy Rescue, every volunteer brings their own story, passion, and purpose to our mission — and some journeys come full circle in the most meaningful ways. Randi Shelton’s story is one of those beautiful moments where adoption turns into advocacy, and love for one doodle grows into a deep commitment to helping countless others find safety and second chances!

When people think about fostering, they often imagine opening their home for weeks or months at a time. But there’s another type of fostering that’s just as critical to saving lives: temporary or short-term fostering. In emergency situations, even a few days in a safe home can make all the difference for a dog in need.

If you share your home with a doodle, you already know you’re living with a creature of great complexity. They’re part comedian, part therapist, part toddler, and part Olympic sprinter. But behind all that charm is a dog with some very real health needs — and understanding them is the key to a long, joyful, zoomie‑filled life together. This month, we’re breaking down the essentials of doodle wellness in a way that’s helpful, heart‑centered, and just a little bit funny.

Submitting an adoption application is exciting — and we know it can also feel a little nerve-wracking while you wait to hear back. One of the most common questions we receive is: “What happens after I apply?” Today, we’re pulling back the curtain to walk you through the adoption process step by step, so you know exactly what to expect and why things sometimes take time.

Thinking about adopting a doodle? We love that already! At Doodle Dandy Rescue, our adoption coordinators truly read every single application. Behind the scenes, our team is cheering for great matches and forever homes — and we want to help you put your best foot forward. Here are some friendly, insider tips straight from our adoption team to help your application shine!

Living with a doodle requires fluency in a very specific language! If you share your home, couch, or personal space bubble with a doodle, you already know: these dogs don’t just live with you — they communicate with you. Loudly. Dramatically. With full-body enthusiasm and a vocabulary that would put a toddler to shame. I present to you: The Official Doodle Dictionary. A field guide for decoding your fluffy linguist.