Early February, 2025.

On 04 February, a convoy of three vans and six volunteer drivers will transport 29 senior cats and dogs from our home in Rockville/Derwood, MD down to our new home in Perry, FL.

Let me begin by saying how much we have LOVED being a part of the Montgomery County, MD pet community. Our home in Rockville/Derwood has served us well since 2016.  And our volunteers, supporters, and friends are without rival … we will miss the people who made up the Leashes End family the most.

2024 was a significant year for me personally and for the rescue. Initially, I had planned to spend 30 years in the Navy, retire from active duty in 2028, and remain in Maryland.  My father used to snicker at my plans and tell me “Risa, people plan; God laughs.” My military career has taught me that “plans are worthless, but planning is everything.” (Courtesy of Dwight D. Eisenhower.)

It was clear to me by the middle of 2024, that I was ready to leave the Navy and focus my attention exclusively on my animal rescue work.  My retirement date would be moved up to the summer of 2025, capping 27 years of active duty service in Afghanistan, Iraq, and elsewhere ashore, and afloat. 

Not long after that decision, it further became clear to me that in order for me to bring my plans for Leashes End to fruition, I would not be able to remain in Rockville … it simply would not be viable. After much research, I decided to return to my home state of Florida where I can spend the rest of my life (Risa 2.0) maturing and growing the Leashes End.

The property pictured consists of a lovely 3,100 square foot home on 26 gorgeous, fenced acres.  I expect the better part of 2025 will be spent fixing up the house (which needs some TLC) and growing a new network in north Florida. Once we’re established, the real fun will begin!  

Of course everyone knows that an undertaking like Leashes End takes a village! Taking care of all our pets and our home would be impossible without our fantastic cadre of volunteers – those who visit and those who live-in. I could not be more fortunate and grateful that two of our live-in volunteers, Kari & Margie, have chosen to accompany Leashes End to Florida, even though it means increasing the distance from their own families. Not only have they helped with the arduous task of getting the household packed up and ready for the move, they will also mind the rescue for several months on their own, while I finish up with the Navy in Maryland.  Thank you, Ladies!

VisitFlorida.com:  Nestled in Florida’s Big Bend region 50 miles southeast of Tallahassee, the rural town of Perry is a welcome escape for outdoor adventurers, anglers, and families looking to spend time in nature. With annual festivals throughout the year, abundant parks and green spaces to explore, and scenic waterways for paddling, fishing, and boating, this area offers plenty to do for visitors of all ages.

Known as the Tree Capital of the South, Perry is home to a number of parks, including Forest Capital Museum State Park, which keeps the town’s forestry heritage alive

NaturalNorthFlorida.com:  Perry, one of several Natural North Florida towns located on U.S. Highway 19/98, is the county seat of Taylor County, Florida. Perry, population 7,000, is one of two Natural North Florida towns named after Madison Starke Perry, Governor of Florida from 1875 to 1861. Perry is undergoing a rejuvenation of its downtown which makes it worth a stop if, for no other reason, than to visit the downtown and its eateries. Downtown is located just a few blocks off U.S. Highway 19 and U.S. Highway 98.

However, downtown Perry has more going for it than just food. The downtown is lined with interesting shops and features, including Rosehead Park. Perry is home to a number of festivals and events which draw crowds from the entire southeastern United States, including the Big Bend Brewfest in early March, the Florida State Bluegrass Festival in early April, the Smokin’ in the Pines Barbecue Festival in late September and the Florida Forest Festival held in late October.

Niche.com: Perry is a town in Florida with a population of 6,879. Perry is in Taylor County. Living in Perry offers residents a suburban rural mix feel and most residents own their homes. Many families live in Perry and residents tend to have moderate political views