A facility billed as the largest no-kill dog rescue in the United States is now open in Macon County.

Big Dog Ranch Rescue Alabama has turned a 100-acre former greyhound training facility into a regional rescue center, which its owners say will eventually save about 5,000 dogs a year over a region covering eight states including Alabama.

Located in Shorter, the facility will serve as a rescue, rehabilitation and adoption center for neglected and abused dogs. It’s a companion facility for a similar shelter in Palm Beach County, Fla.

“The opening of a second Big Dog Ranch Rescue location is something I’ve prayed for over the years,” Big Dog Ranch Rescue Founder and CEO Lauree Simmons said. “It’s a great day for us and, more importantly, it’s a great day for the dogs.”

Founded in 2008 by Simmons, Big Dog Ranch Rescue says it has saved more than 53,000 dogs during its time.

Currently, the center is comprised of three renovated buildings housing more than 100 dogs, and a temporary veterinary center staffed by a medical team. The owner says a remaining 13 kennels will be renovated, along with other support buildings, as funding allows.

The center, according to its organizers, will help alleviate a pet overpopulation crisis in the Southeast, and allow adoptable dogs to be transported later to Northeastern rescue partners. Cost of living increases have resulted in overcrowded shelters and a soaring euthanasia rate, they say.