VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: TAGGART ATWOOD

Meet Taggart Atwood — Proof That One Dog Can Change Everything

Some volunteers arrive with a skillset. Others arrive with a story. And then there are volunteers like Taggart Atwood, whose journey with Doodle Dandy Rescue began with a single dog who opened her heart and reshaped her purpose.

A Rescue Dog Named Koko

Taggart adopted her first rescue poodle, Koko, in November 2025 — a moment she describes as life-changing. From the instant they met at a DDR volunteer event, she knew Koko was meant to be hers. Her loyalty, silliness, and pure, uncomplicated love quickly became the center of Taggart’s world.

Koko didn’t just become her best friend. She became the reason Taggart stepped into rescue work. “She instantly became my world, and I knew I wanted to give back to the rescue that gave me my best friend.”

From Adopter to Volunteer

In January 2026, Taggart officially joined the DDR volunteer family. Based in Houston, she quickly jumped in to help wherever she was needed, including:

1. Supplies — helping ensure fosters and pups have what they need

2. Transport — safely getting dogs to fosters, vet appointments, and new beginnings

3. Foster Onboarding

Her willingness to step into any role, learn new tasks, and support the team however she can has already made her a standout volunteer.

Why She Volunteers

For Taggart, volunteering is about witnessing transformation — the moment a dog who has been overlooked, scared, or unsure finally receives the love and care they deserve.

She especially loves seeing:

• Dogs arrive shy and leave confident

• Fosters pour their hearts into each pup

• The DDR community rally around every dog’s second chance

It’s a front-row seat to hope.

A Heart Built for Rescue

Animals have always held a special place in Taggart’s life, and DDR gave her a way to turn that love into something meaningful. She’s proud to be part of a community that changes lives — both canine and human — every single day. “My Koko is the best thing that has ever happened to me… I wish everyone could experience that kind of love.”

Looking Ahead

Taggart is excited to continue creating memories, helping more dogs find their people, and deepening her involvement with DDR. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and her story is a reminder of how one adoption can spark a lifetime of giving back. We’re incredibly grateful to have Taggart as part of the DDR family — a volunteer whose heart for rescue shines through in everything she does.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, join us here.

Written By: Denise, DDR Volunteer