Queen's Ranch Dog Rescue is selling holiday poinsettias to raise money for a permanent dog sanctuary on 5.5 acres in Duette, with free delivery available to Lakewood Ranch buyers.

The nonprofit launched its 2026 Holiday Poinsettia Fundraiser offering locally grown red poinsettias from Orban's Nursery, according to Pulse of Manatee. Plants cost $15 each for orders of one to four, or $13 each for five or more.

Orders of at least five plants qualify for free local delivery in Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Palmetto and Parrish. Buyers can also pick up orders at the ranch.

Proceeds go toward water systems, irrigation, fencing, animal housing and sanitation facilities the property still needs before the sanctuary can open fully.

What the rescue needs

Pia Ceccarelli-Rosenberg, founder of Queen's Ranch Dog Rescue, has secured the Duette land but faces a long list of construction costs. The organization's long-term goal is to house approximately 100 dogs while generating its own revenue to reduce dependence on donations.

According to the rescue's website, the self-sustaining plan includes renting a barn-style venue for weddings and events, leasing a training area to dog trainers, operating a weekend farmers market and offering themed photo-shoot stations.

Dogs continue to be abandoned on or near the property while construction plans wait for funding, according to Pulse of Manatee.

In a statement published through Bradenton Magazine, Ceccarelli-Rosenberg said, "Imagine owning the land where you dream of saving abandoned dogs, only to watch dogs being abandoned there before you even have the resources to build their sanctuary."

How to help

Beyond poinsettia sales, Queen's Ranch is seeking business sponsorships, volunteers and in-kind donations to support construction, according to Pulse of Manatee.

Orders can be placed at queensranch.org/christmas.

Upcoming:

  • Saturday, Dec. 5, and Sunday, Dec. 6: Poinsettia pickup at Queen's Ranch in Duette, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.