About Us
what we do & how
Red Collar Rescue & Recovery serves as a dedicated partner to families navigating the search for a lost dog. We take pride in being Southern Arizona’s only 501(c)(3) humane dog trapping organization, focused exclusively on reuniting lost dogs with their families.
Our approach centers on professional humane trap‑assisted recovery and strategic consultations to aide in the safe recovery of owner lost dogs.
Our trained volunteer team supports each case with expert guidance, but not every situation requires an in‑person field response. We don’t replace your efforts; we strengthen them with skilled humane‑trapping volunteers and experienced Lost Dog Consultants who step in when on‑site assistance is appropriate.
Whether we’re advising you remotely or working alongside you in the field, we provide proven recovery strategies, specialized equipment, and compassionate, safety‑focused techniques to help guide a successful reunion.
How Red Collar Was Born
Meet Tucker, the cherished companion of Mechelle, the President and Founder of Red Collar Rescue & Recovery. This gentle giant, an English Mastiff, faced a tough 22 days lost in the vast desert when he escaped from a boarding kennel, resulting in a significant weight loss of 48 pounds due to an unfortunate accident.
With the steadfast support of the community, Mechelle and her family quickly mobilized after receiving a report of Tucker's sighting. Mechelle and her young daughter successfully rescued him using the Shy Dog Protocol.
The challenge Mechelle encountered throughout her journey, was that there was no experienced trapping organization locally in her area to help with a humane capture. This experience ignited a passion in Mechelle, inspiring her to create Red Collar Rescue & Recovery, which provides humane trapping services to her community focused exclusively on recovering owner lost dogs.
She saw a need that existed through her own experience and she is proud to be surrounded by like minded volunteers who believe in her mission!
Uncompromising Reliability in Every Tool We Use
We choose only the most trusted tools—Tomahawk traps, Spartan live‑feed cameras, and finely tuned, highly sensitive strategies—because every detail matters. Our volunteers train tirelessly, showing up with intention, showing up during the day, in the middle of the night or a the crack of dawn. Our volunteers are guided by skill, patience, and genuine care. Together, we work with one goal in mind: giving every lost animal the best possible chance to be found.
Our Volunteers
Our volunteer crew is always growing! Oftentimes, folks that we have helped in the rescue of their dog are inspired to join our team! Every member of our team is fully trained and equipped to help our community in the rescuing of lost dogs. We do this for the love of dogs and our desire to help lost dogs become reunited with their owners. We all have families and careers outside of this rescue and are 100% volunteer operated and donation funded with no one receiving a salary.