Structured rehabilitation for shelter dogs.

Safety-first behavioral training saves lives.

Our history:

Rosebud's story became more than the rescue of one dog—it became the beginning of a movement. Faced with the heartbreaking reality that a loving, intelligent dog could lose her life because of behavioral challenges and the limitations of a shelter environment, a group of compassionate individuals refused to accept that her story should end there.

Volunteers, foster families, trainers, veterinary professionals, and dedicated advocates came together with a shared belief: every dog deserves the chance to be understood, supported, and given the opportunity to succeed. They rallied around Rosebud, believing that with patience, structure, and compassionate care, her future could be rewritten.

Watching Rosebud thrive outside the shelter confirmed what they had hoped all along—that many dogs facing euthanasia are not beyond help. They simply need the right environment, experienced guidance, and someone willing to believe in them.

Inspired by Rosebud's journey, this group founded a foster-based rescue dedicated to changing the outcome for dogs like her. Their mission is to provide safe foster homes, individualized rehabilitation, veterinary care, and unwavering advocacy for dogs at risk of behavioral or space-related euthanasia. Every life they save honors the dog who inspired them to believe that one act of compassion can spark lasting change—and that every dog deserves the chance to write a new chapter.

People and culture

Our people are what make Rosebud Rescue Alliance possible. We are a team of dedicated volunteers who give our time, experience, and compassion to help dogs in need.

Our foster families, trainers, veterinary professionals, and advocates work together to give each dog the care and support they deserve. By combining our different skills and perspectives, we're able to help dogs facing behavioral or space-related euthanasia build a brighter future.

We believe every volunteer plays an important role. Together, we're creating more second chances—one dog at a time.

Melissa French - President

Rick Bostick - Director of Training & Volunteer Programs

Sarah Massey - Secretary

Melissa is a Certified Veterinary Technician with a degree in Animal Science and more than 12 years of experience in veterinary care and animal welfare. She serves as President of The Rosebud Rescue Alliance, providing strategic leadership and advocating for compassionate, evidence-based rehabilitation and successful long-term outcomes for at-risk dogs.

Rick mentors and supports volunteers, foster families, and adopters while creating opportunities for them to make a meaningful impact throughout the rescue. As a highly-rated and experienced dog trainer, Rick also shares his knowledge to help strengthen the bond between people and their pets, giving dogs the skills and confidence they need to thrive in foster and forever homes.

Sarah brings more than 20 years of nonprofit leadership and administrative experience. She is passionate about animal welfare, ethical rescue, and building a strong organization that can continue helping dogs in need. As Secretary, Sarah oversees board records and communications, helps develop policies and procedures. Her dedication helps ensure TRRA can continue making a difference for animals and the people who care for them.

Marie Yerardi - Treasurer

Marie oversees the financial health of our rescue with integrity, transparency, and careful stewardship. She manages budgeting, financial reporting, and organizational finances, ensuring every donation is used responsibly to support our mission. Her years of dedication to volunteer work in Massachusetts animal rescues provide experience and serve as a resource needed to give animals the care and second chances they deserve.

Bridget Bletzer - Director of Animal Behavior

Veronica Lopez - Director of Marketing & Community Engagement

Veronica helps share our rescue's mission and connect our community with the animals who need them most. She leads marketing and outreach efforts, promotes fundraising and adoption initiatives, and works to grow awareness and support for our organization. Through creative storytelling and strategic communication, she helps inspire more people to foster, adopt, volunteer, and make a difference.

Bridget is an Animal Caregiver and Dog Trainer dedicated to promoting the emotional well-being and success of every animal in our foster-based rescue. She develops behavior support plans, coaches foster families, and works closely with volunteers and veterinary partners to help animals build confidence, overcome challenges, and prepare for successful placement in loving forever homes.

Abbie is a Certified Veterinary Assistant with a strong passion for canine behavior, welfare, and rehabilitation. She is certified in animal anestheseology, animal behavior, and is fear-free certified. She ensures every animal receives the medical care, support, and compassion they need to thrive. She works closely with foster families, veterinarians, and volunteers; overseeing each animal's journey from rescue to adoption, helping them heal and grow. Abbie also serves as the organization's Website Administrator

Sydney Pignone - Director of Events & Public Relations

Sydney helps build relationships that support our rescue and the dogs we serve. She organizes fundraising events, connects with local businesses and community partners, and helps spread awareness about our mission. Whether she's planning an event, promoting adoptable dogs, or creating new opportunities for community involvement, Sydney is passionate about bringing people together to make a difference. Her love for animal advocacy and community outreach helps give more dogs the second chances they deserve.

Abbie Chenis - Director of Animal Care