My love for dogs began in childhood, and they have been a constant part of my life ever since. That passion deepened a few years ago when I opened a dog daycare and boarding facility, where I discovered how fulfilling it is to care for and advocate for dogs beyond my own.

My journey as a livestock guardian dog owner truly began with Yogi. He was a rescue from Great Pyrenees Rescue Montana and my soul dog. Yogi is the reason I fell in love with this breed and this work. He crossed the Rainbow Bridge a few months ago and is deeply missed by everyone on the ranch. He taught his two younger siblings how to work, how to protect against predators, and how to be the best dogs they could be. Thanks to him—and somehow a bit of luck—they even have a recall.

That path eventually led me into rescue work, and taking over Great Pyrenees Rescue Montana has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. There is nothing more meaningful than watching a dog arrive unsure or shut down and then helping them learn to trust, feel safe, and truly open up. Seeing them gain confidence and head off to their forever homes makes every challenge worth it.

Great Pyrenees are gentle giants who are often misunderstood. When they finally settle in, you can see it in their eyes—they feel safe, they can rest, and they know they are cared for. Being part of that moment and honoring dogs like Yogi through this work is an honor I never take for granted.

Ellen began volunteering with Great Pyrenees Rescue Montana about five years ago, helping with transports across Montana and the Northwest wherever support was needed. Living near the rescue’s early kennel in the Bitterroot, she started photographing the dogs and quickly recognized the need for stronger storytelling and outreach. After stepping in to manage social media, she helped grow GPRM’s online community from about 5,000 to over 30,000 supporters in just two years.

Over time, Ellen expanded into day-to-day operations, assisting with intakes, adopter approvals, and placements. She now serves as a board member, continues to oversee all social media platforms, and leads community fundraising events, including Benefit Brew Night at Lolo Peak Brewery, which has raised nearly $15,000 in two years.

Ellen believes this work is always about the dogs and the team behind them. Helping animals comes first — everything else follows.

Peggy has been involved with Great Pyrenees Rescue, Montana (GPRM), for nearly two decades. In 2025, she was appointed to the Board of Directors. Her passion for rescuing dogs began early—at five years old, she secretly carried a puppy out of the local animal shelter, tucking him under her coat and telling her mom she’d wait in the car. The puppy stayed quiet until they got home, where Peggy’s plan was discovered. After some pleading, her mom returned to the shelter to officially adopt Rascal, leading to Peggy’s lifelong devotion to dogs.

While Peggy loves all breeds, the Great Pyrenees captured her heart in 2007. It started with an ad for a Golden/Border Collie cross from Companion Golden Retriever Rescue in Utah. It wasn’t long before she realized that Chazz was a Golden Pyr. After researching the breed, she connected with GPRM. Her first foster, aptly named Puppy, instilled her belief that she could make a real difference in the lives of dogs who are discarded and unwanted through no fault of their own. Over the years, Peggy has fostered around 16 Pyrenees, and in 2020, Chewy became her “foster furever” pup.

In addition to GPRM work, Peggy also joins a community of dedicated volunteers who transport dogs from difficult situations to new beginnings.

As the saying goes, "You can't change a dog's past, but you can rewrite their future."

I grew up surrounded by dogs, and my deep appreciation for the human–canine bond began with my Brittany Spaniel, Yeager, who became my first true “soul dog.” After moving to Montana in 2020, I missed having a dog of my own, which led me to welcome my first Pyrenees mix, Jennings, in 2022. Jennings has taught me invaluable lessons—not only about the Great Pyrenees breed, but about patience, growth, and life itself. Through Jennings, I later welcomed Miley, my Pyrenees–Anatolian mix, further deepening my connection to these remarkable dogs.

I currently reside in Montana, where I enjoy hiking, traveling, and paddleboarding whenever possible—often accompanied by two very large dogs and a Mini Australian Shepherd. My passion for the outdoors and adventure has taken me to destinations including Alaska, Maine, South Dakota, Idaho, and much of Wyoming. My fiancé and I prioritize spending time outdoors, taking every opportunity to explore new places alongside our dogs.

Working with Great Pyrenees Rescue Montana has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Their supportive, positive, and welcoming environment makes it a joy to assist with transporting dogs and helping them safely journey from point A to point B. I am honored to be part of a community that advocates for this beautiful breed, and I look forward to seeing more Great Pyrenees welcomed into loving homes.