Rescue. Advocacy. Celebration!

Those three simple words in this title are the motto and foundation of New Orleans Bulldog Rescue. This volunteer-run 501(c)(3) organization is an all-breed dog rescue and advocacy group dedicated to furthering the human–canine bond, and advocating for the welfare of dogs in the New Orleans metropolitan area. In addition to rehabilitation and rehoming dogs, NOBR coordinates a Bully Care Brigade to visit local hospitals and care centers; a Safe Haven program for pets of domestic violence victims in transition; educational programming on responsible pet ownership, and public campaigns for humane sheltering practices, breeding restrictions and other efforts to reduce animal suffering. All programs are supported by the NOBR “Canine Aid & Pleasure Club,” which welcomes all human and canine members.

NOBR was founded in 2010 by Michael Schachtman while he was still in law school in honor of his pets Boss and Lucille. He had previously worked with other rescue groups. Since graduating and becoming a lawyer, he started the organization alongside with a strong community of volunteers. NOBR does not have a brick-and-mortar space, so they rely on foster families to house the dogs leading up to their adoption. Currently, Michael and his partner Emily currently have four pets (children) ranging in age and size.

Michael explains that NOBR has a constant flow of dogs coming in. Bulldogs are very popular breeds. This Thanksgiving, a French bulldog named Winston won the Best in Show title at the 21st Annual National Dog Show hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia. Winston beat out hundreds of other dogs and took the coveted top canine title. The Thanksgiving competition marked Winston’s 78th Best in Show title, making the pooch the No. 1 ranked all-breed canine in the nation. French bulldogs are the second-most popular breed in the U.S. after Labrador retrievers, according to the American Kennel Club.

Bulldogs are cute, energetic, intelligent, playful, and fiercely loyal to their masters. They are also very expensive breeds, both to purchase and upkeep. People get caught up in the idea of having one of the gorgeous animals without doing their homework on their care. Due to their physique, bulldogs are extremely susceptible to many health problems. Common health issues include brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome and other upper respiratory disorders, eye conditions, hip dysplasia, and skin conditions such as skin fold dermatitis. Bulldogs have low bodies, narrow hips, and broad shoulders that make it difficult for them to move around with ease. Their short snout and compressed skulls make them have serious breathing problems, thus contributing to respiratory problems. In addition, bulldogs’ large heads make it difficult for them to be delivered normally. About 80% of bulldogs are delivered via Caesarean section. These reasons cause many people to rehome their dogs. In addition to adoptions, this group also has a social element. Dog owners regularly meet and do fun things together, such as the Barkus parade. Currently, they have a wonderful fundraiser happening for the NOBR 2023 Calendar. This is the perfect gift for the holiday season or new year. This calendar features alumni who have been placed in loving homes ranging up to ten years ago. One-hundred percent of proceeds of the sale of these calendars go directly toward the medical care of previously abused, abandoned and neglected dogs who are now in the care of New Orleans Bulldog Rescue.

For Michael and all the volunteers at NOBR, this is a labor of love. “We are completing families and finding people best friends who will shower them with love and affection,” he says. And I for one know that nothing heals the soul like the love of a dog or pet.

To give a donation this holiday season, buy a calendar. To find out more information, go to https://www.neworleansbulldogs.com/. All donations are tax-deductible, greatly appreciated, and directly allocated toward animal care.