Where Healing becomes home

When Greg Adler first began this work, the mission was focused on creating a sanctuary for neglected, abused, and abandoned small dogs. That mission became Zuzu’s Small Dog Sanctuary, named after a feisty, cuddly, hilarious four-pound long-haired Chihuahua who acted like she owned the place. As the sanctuary grew, so did the need for more space. In 2025, Greg purchased a 35-acre ranch in North Texas to give animals room to breathe, heal, and live in peace. Soon after, the mission expanded in ways no one could have predicted. On Christmas Eve, a large working dog appeared on the rural road near the ranch — abandoned, covered in fleas, ticks, coco burrs, open wounds, and a festering infection. Greg dropped everything to help her. She was taken to the vet, treated, bathed, fed, and cared for. No one came looking for her. He named her Eve, and she became part of the sanctuary forever. Then came Opal. Then Sophie. Then Pixie. Then more and more animals with nowhere else to go. What began as a small dog sanctuary became something greater: a lifelong refuge for abused, abandoned, neglected, and unwanted animals in need of protection, veterinary care, and a permanent home. 

We cannot undo what bad humans do to innocent animals. But good humans can help make it right. 

At Shadow to Shelter Sanctuary, every animal’s final chapter is written in safety, dignity, joy, and love.