Barb's Dog Rescue
of Rocky Point AND AZ
Rescue never stops.
Barb’s Dog Rescue is saving the lives of Rocky Point’s street dogs! Most dogs come to us in dire condition; they are often sick, starving, injured or abused. Many of our female dogs come to us pregnant, and we are so happy to provide these sweet moms with a safe space to have their babies. 2026 has been a very busy year, with well over 400 dogs rescued and adopted to loving families thus far! We lost our founder and hero Barbara Mumaugh in 2023, and while her loss has left a hole in our hearts, we are more committed than ever to continue her mission and life’s work.
We rely on donations to continue to save these precious souls—we vet, vaccinate, and spay/neuter every dog before they are made available for adoption. Many of our dogs come to us in extreme need of medical care--often they've been hit by cars and need life saving surgery to repair their broken bodies. Some are suffering from starvation, others are critically ill from malnutrition and parasite invasion, and many dogs come to us pregnant.
In an effort to increase adoptions, we opened a state of the art adoption center in Peoria, AZ in April, 2026. Our new facility in AZ mirrors the congregate living concept that is central to our Mexico operation. BDR, AZ features 10,000 sq ft of resort style suites, a thrift store, grooming wing, and two huge indoor playrooms. Outside, our dogs enjoy five spacious play yards, and a center court that rivals a five start resort, with a pool, a spa, and even a grotto!
Our work is expensive. We are eternally grateful to our supporters who never let us down! If you love our work, please consider becoming a monthly donor--our recurring donations are truly the backbone of our operation.
The Penasco rescue is currently home to over 430 dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds, and our Peoria location, home to about 30 who've made the move from Mexico or have been saved from the MCACC e-list. Our dogs live in a community setting, where they learn how to live and play together. This is great for their socialization and makes their transition into families with other dogs much easier. Our facilities are extraordinary, and we love to show them off! Our hard working staff has dedicated themselves to this very important cause. Rescue never stops—our work continues 24 hours a day, seven days/week.
If you’re visiting Rocky Point, please consider giving one of our precious pups a break from shelter life—just stop by the rescue and choose a sweetheart to take on vacation with you! Maybe, just maybe, you’ll fall in love and decide to make their vacation permanent!
BDR's vacation program is also available in Peoria--just email us for more information!
Our Rocky Point rescue is open to visitors 7 days/week, please come and get a healthy dose of doggie love! We always appreciate volunteers—if you have some spare time to give, contact us at barbsdogrescue@gmail.com. We need volunteers in both Rocky Point and Peoria. We hope to see you soon!
Our History
Barb’s Dog Rescue opened its doors in 2001 with one woman’s concern for the thousands of homeless dogs in Puerto Penasco, Mexico. As word about our shelter has spread, our rescue & sanctuary has expanded. It’s hard to say no to moms with young puppies or injured dogs who would likely not survive if left on the streets. Once just a small shelter run by Barb alone, we now house over 400 dogs and puppies on any given day, with a team of staff and dedicated volunteers. Our facility has expanded into several acres of land...we even have a dog park! Because there are not enough people looking to adopt in the Puerto Penasco community, we also work in AZ, and opened a beautiful adoption center in Peoria in April, 2026.
For those that have been severely traumatized or injured, Barb’s Dog Rescue will be their permanent sanctuary, and they will live out their lives knowing they are safe from the challenges of street life.
Meet The Team!
Erick
Oscar
Ivon
Luz
Monica
Araceli
Perla
Julio
Natali
Hilda
Consuelo
Arturo
Mariel
Jose' Manuel
Our Board of Directors
My name is Gail Lacy, I was born and raised in Glendale, AZ. I have always been an advocate for dogs. I once stole 2 dogs from a backyard because they were being abused and found then new homes.
Over 35 years ago I taught school. Every year we read a beautiful dog story about a young boy in the late 1800's who saved money from coons and other wildlife he trapped and sold. He saved all the money he made in a Baking soda can to buy his first hunting dog. Every year my class brought in change or money they earned and we made a trip every year to a dog rescue to donate our earnings.
When I met Barb many years ago she made such a huge impact on me, I knew I had to help with her mission. I originally started transporting dogs for her to Halo, Puppy Luv and a friend who had a small horse and dog rescue in New River, I had several fundraisers at my favorite watering hole which were very successful, we collected money, food, toys, blankets washers and dryers. From there I had an auction planned which was interrupted by Covid. Eventually did on online event with Sheila's help we finally pulled it off.
When Barb asked me to be on the board I was honored. Unfortunately, I don't remember what year that was. I became very close to Barb when she became ill and would come to Phx. for Dr appointments, this went on for a year and a half. My home became her home away from home.
I am so pleased with what we have all done to keep Barbs legacy and dream alive and I'm sure she is too. She definitely has the best staff and board around. I will also do what I can to keep the rescue going strong.
Meet Gina Benner: a Prescott native and long-time Rocky Point vacationer, Gina has woven her love for education and real estate into the fabric of her life. Initially a high school business teacher, she transitioned to real estate in Prescott 17 years ago, where she’s become a trusted realtor in the community.
A proud mom to two wonderful boys, ages 22 and 17, Gina’s lifelong passion has been rescuing dogs. Her dedication deepened in 2014 when she met Barb and became a devoted supporter of the rescue. Barb knew she could count on Gina to help the dogs most in need—many found new homes thanks to Gina, and some became permanent members of her family. Gina’s commitment to her canine companions even influenced personal life changes, including a divorce. With a smile, she admits that her six dogs now happily share the extra space in her bed.
Gina considers her work with the rescue as her third and most fulfilling career. Embracing every moment, she plans to continue her rescue efforts "til she drops," finding deep joy and purpose in giving dogs a better life. For Gina, her journey is not just about homes and real estate, but about finding and creating forever homes—for people and pets alike.
Meet Jenny Radigan: Mom of nine, dog rescuer, and the only teacher we know who can explain the intricacies of English grammar while juggling a litter of puppies! Living the dream in sunny Mexico with her big, bustling, bark-filled household, Jenny doesn't just teach verbs and vocabulary—she's on a mission to teach compassion and care through her work with Barb's Dog Rescue and other rescues in Penasco. Supported by her amazing, long-suffering husband, Tom, who does whatever is needed, and her children's unending support, Jenny's desire is to always be at the heart of the action. Proving every day that multitasking is her superpower, life for Jenny is a constant adventure, filled with lessons, love, and laughter.
Shelley Marsh
Secretary/Treasurer
Loretta Sernowski
Officer
Lisa Turnbull,
President
