Meet Our Team
Valeree Bertram - President / Founder
When I was seven years old, I remember sitting in my room with my friend discussing what we would do when we grew up. I told her that I was going to own a ranch and take care of all the dogs & deer in the world. I had no idea at that time that forty something years later, I would be making my dream (at least part of it) come true. My love and compassion for dogs has led me down this path. I have a strong management background (35) years in million dollar facilities, nonprofit business experience and a strong desire to ensure the homeless dogs in our area are safe and secure as we endeavor find forever homes for them. My highest priority is to make sure the dogs in our care feel loved, are trained and socialized so they will have easy transitions into their new homes. I have cared for dogs since I was young. My mom raised AKC German Shepherds, and I remember delivering puppies at the age of six. I have always had compassion for dogs, and they have been an important part of my life. My home has always had at least one dog. I enjoy being able to serve the Jarrell Community by helping homeless, abused and lost dogs. We will never refuse a dog in need.
Dena Foster - Vice President
Retail manager experience, worked with Ranchers and Farmers with animals for ten years.
Susan Smith - Secretary/ Information Specialist
I have spent 25 years as a Nutrition Administrator working as the Manager over all schools in different I.S.D's throughout the state of Texas, and have managed employees in three to five schools and made sure that children received the proper nutrition. I plan to return to school to get a Masters' in Psychology to become a Crisis Counselor. I have been a leader within my church for many years and have performed the duties of Secretary, Finance and other positions with non-profit organizations. I am a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and have helped with this non-profit for the last six years.
William Bertram Finance Officer/Chief IT Tech
I have cared for dogs for as long as I can remember. Both my mother and grandmother had dogs. I have always helped with the general welfare of the dogs; from bathing to feeding to taking them to the vet on a regular basis. I bring a vast knowlege of business. I have managed establishments for the past ten years, and have been trained on IT work for the past three years.
Toni Pearce - Animal Welfare Advisor
I am a vocational nurse. I have 30 years of experience in hospitals, nursing homes and most recently, home health care. I have a large heart and compassion for all four-legged animals and have always had dogs and a cat in my home.
Bud Pearce - Chief Maintenance Engineer
I have 35 years of construction and building experience: welding, metal building construction, granite and tile installation master.
Loren Dixon - Environmental Engineer
I have experience in plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning, and am currently employed by the City of Jarrell as a public works director. I handle the environmental chemicals and testing for TCEQ regulations.