Cadets in Bob Jones High School AFJROTC helps needy animals at Notorious D.O.G. Dog Rescue

MADISON – Animals who previously lived in fear eagerly received daily sustenance from cadets in Air Force Junior ROTC at Bob Jones High School.

The resident dogs at Notorious D.O.G. Dog Rescue (think . . . ‘The Notorious B.I.G.’ for a pun with the American rapper) happily accepted food and supplies from Bob Jones AFJROTC. Cadet Anthony Rivera enthusiastically served as the student point-of-contact, and AFJROTC instructor Dr. Maj. Melissa Lacey led the group.

“The AFJROTC collected a remarkable 619 pounds of dog food, 25 bags of dog treats, 136 dog toys, as well as water, food bowls, leashes, puppy pads, beds, blankets and cleaning supplies,” Amybeth Hoffman said. Hoffman volunteers for Notorious D.O.G, and her son is enrolled in AFJROTC.

When the rescue asked for supplies, Hoffman “immediately thought of Bob Jones AFJROTC. They strongly believe in community service and approach everything with their motto: ‘Gotta Wanna.’” Since opening in March 2023, Notorious D.O.G. has rescued and found welcoming, permanent homes for approximately 250 dogs. By year’s end, the rescue expects to place 300-plus amazing dogs with equally amazing families, Hoffman said. Notorious D.O.G. is a 501(c)3 non-profit dog rescue.

At any given time, Notorious D.O.G. has 40 to 60 dogs in the rescue program. Sadly, many dogs have been abused and malnourished, but fortunately this rescue rehabilitates them to become loving companions.

“Unlike other rescues, we seek out hard cases — dogs in truly horrific conditions. We feel these dogs really deserve an opportunity at a second chance to live a great life and to know love and security,” Hoffman said.

“Several wonderful, local rescues are hardworking and certainly worthy of donations. However, Notorious D.O.G.’s mission is slightly unique (because) they take hard cases. Additionally, Notorious D.O.G. doesn’t have a consistent stream of income or funding (and no thrift store),” Hoffman said.

After Bob Jones’ drive, “the rescue was in awe…absolutely blown away by how the community pulled together for the dogs’ sake,” she said.

The dogs’ warm-up time with humans varies for their personality, temperament and type of abuse experienced. For example, the following dogs have different needs:

• Miracle — Immediately friendly to staff. He worked as a bait dog, was shot and has a disfigured face without a tongue. Miracle only wants hugs.

• Iker – Required rehabilitation. This bait dog was beaten with a brick . . . likely endured other harm. Iker can’t be around dogs – or people in the beginning. After a few months, he behaves well with staff and realizes not all people are terrible.

• Thor – This Cane Corso was abused by a woman. He needed three weeks for the rescue’s female staff to earn his trust.

“A case-by-case basis. Depending on the abuse, we just leave them in their own space to decompress. Other times, animals are begging to be loved quickly and want …petting,” Hoffman said.

Jaime Finley is Founder and President of Notorious D.O.G. Chris Finley is Vice President. Tamar Ibarra of Madison is Coordinator.

Notorious D.O.G. appreciates any donations of supplies or cash. The staff has a wish list on Amazon and Chewy. The rescue always welcomes volunteers.

“The rescue is extremely grateful for efforts of Bob Jones students and the community,” Hoffman said.

Pet Finder lists all dogs available for rescue. For more information, call 256441-7333, email notoriousdogrescue@gmail.com or visit Facebook.