The Ryder Fund
GRRSWF occasionally gets dogs that need extensive diagnostics or have special needs that require extra levels of care for their lifetimes. Examples include Hope, who was struck by a car and required pricey surgery as well as months of follow-up physical therapy, and Captain, who had an adverse reaction to a heartworm treatment injection and needed lengthy hospitalization to survive.
We have established this fund in honor of Ryder, a young,“handicapable” boy who came into our rescue Dec. 1, 2025. The Ryder Fund welcomes donations for these special cases to ensure these dogs have the healthy, bright futures they deserve.
Seldom in our history has a young golden drawn the sort of international attention as Ryder. Despite extensive testing, we never got a diagnosis for his muscle atrophy and exercise intolerance. Though his ability to walk is limited, Ryder is a bright, happy, playful boy who loves his buggy rides and his job as a GRRSWF Ambassadog!
Your donations helped cover his significant bills and now will go toward those of other special needs goldens that are sure to come along.
Ryder has come such a long way
Golden Retriever Rescue of Southwest Florida has been serving the community for over 17 years. We started as a small volunteer-run organization and have since grown to become one of the most respected animal rescues in the area. Our dedication to the well-being of animals is what drives us every day. It is brave pups like Ryder who grab our hearts and let us know that we have more to do. Please help us continue to help dogs like Ryder who have nowhere else to turn.