the pines at buckeye ridge is a bed and breakfast near buckeye lake

Founder

Dena Scott

I grew up in a small, rural town where life was simple, money was scarce, and creativity was my greatest escape. With nothing but big dreams and a sketchbook full of hope, I left that country town for the city, determined to make a name for myself.

After 25 years of success in the fast-paced corporate world, I made the bold decision to walk away from the boardroom and step into a barn.

Throughout my professional journey, I was known for my creativity and leadership—bringing people together through art, using it to connect, uplift, and inspire.

Compassion fueled everything I did. Whether it was team-building exercises that sparked unity or volunteering at food pantries, veterans’ programs, and local animal rescues, I always found ways to turn passion into purpose.

With a creative mind and a heart for healing, I’ve always dreamed big, chasing the fine details that turn good ideas into unforgettable experiences. I used my platform to advocate for our military, first responders, and animals, driven by a desire to give back. Every project, every person, every act of service has always been approached with intention, care, and a signature flair for the extraordinary. Now that energy is dedicated to the healing power of animals.

Animals have always been my safe place, my comfort in hard times, my muse in quiet moments, and my constant source of joy. That lifelong love, combined with a deep empathy for those in need, ultimately led me to leave the corporate world and set out on a journey across the country.

I immersed myself in studying animal behavior and learning from wildlife sanctuaries, rescues, and experts—soaking up knowledge and building bonds with creatures great and small.

Through my travels I became deeply moved by the powerful, healing connection between animals and people, especially those facing trauma, disabilities, or emotional wounds. What began as a personal journey of discovery soon evolved into a mission.

Now I’m back where it all began, on country soil, bringing together my talents, my compassion, and my unwavering belief in second chances. What started out as a five-acre vision for service dogs, has now become a 100-acre dream with an extraordinary barn to fill with animals of all kinds, each with a role to play in helping others heal.

I’m creating a one-of-a-kind sanctuary dedicated not only to saving animals but to transforming lives. And through it all, I hope to remind everyone I meet that even the smallest act of kindness has the power to change the world.