Our Core Framework
The Pillars of Our Mission
Together, we envision a future where both wildlife and human communities can thrive, side by side, on a healthier, more sustainable planet.
I. Animal Sanctuary
​Our sanctuary provides lifelong care for non-releasable animals including new-world primates, guinea pigs, dogs, and other vulnerable species. Many arrive from confiscation cases, failed private ownership, or circumstances where returning to the wild is impossible. We prioritize enriched environments, species-appropriate husbandry, veterinary oversight, mental stimulation, socialization, and emotional wellbeing.
CECDFW is actively working toward Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) accreditation to formalize our commitment to excellence in sanctuary care.
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II. Rescue, Foster, Human-Animal Support, & Community Partnership Services
A. Dog Rescue & Dog Foster Program
​CECDFW operates a dog rescue and fostering program for Ellis County, Dallas County, and the City of Ennis. We collaborate with shelters, animal control agencies, and residents to rescue animals in need, provide medical treatment, foster care, and permanent adoption. Our thorough screening and post-adoption support ensure lasting placements and relieve pressure on municipal systems.
B. Human-Animal Support & Resources
Our rescue and community-support work bridges a critical gap for both animals and people. CECDFW operates a dog rescue, foster, and rehoming program serving Ellis County, Dallas County, and the City of Ennis. We collaborate with community organizations and residents to rescue, rehabilitate, medically treat, and place dogs into permanent homes.
We also provide human–animal support services that help individuals facing medical, mental-health, or socioeconomic hardship keep their beloved pets. These services include crisis pet boarding for individuals entering:
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Hospitalization
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Mental-health treatment
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Substance-use rehabilitation
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Domestic-violence relocation
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Homelessness or displacement
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Short-term incarceration
By keeping pets safe during these critical periods, we reduce emotional trauma, prevent worsening mental-health symptoms, and remove barriers that often keep people from accessing treatment or stability.
Additional services include:
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Access to low-cost vaccinations & spay/neuter
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Emergency pet-food assistance
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Behavior & enrichment support
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ESA guidance for qualifying individuals
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Lost-and-found reunification & microchip scanning
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Dog-owner education & training workshops
These programs directly strengthen individuals, families, and community wellbeing.
III. Nature Conservation Education, Wildlife Advocacy & Climate Action
CECDFW advances environmental literacy through education, storytelling, and accessible science communication. Our “Bridging the Nature Deficit” initiative reconnects people with nature to improve mental health and inspire environmental stewardship.
We offer workshops, online educational content, and community engagement activities focused on biodiversity, ecosystem protection, endangered species advocacy, climate-change awareness, and solutions-driven environmental action. Our work encourages community members to understand the urgency of global warming and to support systemic changes that restore ecosystems, protect wildlife, and ensure a livable future for all.
"One of the traditional adages of conservation is to leave it be. But in an age when every corner of the globe is touched by human influence – a new generation of scientists and environmentalists is increasingly calling for more interventionist approaches to save wild animals and ecosystems. For example, vaccinating wildlife when it’s safe and practical.
There are people who say we shouldn’t touch nature, that we shouldn’t alter anything. But really, there are no pristine natural habitats left."
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- Tony Goldberg, a disease ecologist and veterinarian at the University of Wisconsin-Madison