Just about everybody loves puppies. Yet, dogs of every age from 8 weeks to 18 years old need a good home and can become a loving addition to your family. There are far too many pups and older dogs who are in desperate need of being adopted. A large number of unfortunate dogs are raised in horrid conditions, neglected, or subjected to abusive situations.
The simple truth is that dogs are too often treated as commodities for material gain and not regarded as living, breathing, and feeling beings. That is why so many dogs throughout the world are in need of a good home. Rescuing a dog is the first step. The next step is adoption. They will need a new “forever” home and family in which they can live out the rest of their lives in good health, safety, and peace.
Rescue Groups Step Forward
Fortunately, hundreds of rescue groups and shelters have stepped forward to save the lives of thousands of dogs. Once rescued, dogs are rehabilitated, provided medical care, and nursed back to good health. After they have started to recover, they are ready to be adopted and integrated into a caring and loving home.
Adopt Rather Than Buy a Puppy
This is where you can step in and help a dog in dire need. Instead of buying a puppy from a breeder, consider adopting a dog who has been rescued. There are many breeds of dogs available from reputable organizations, and you can most likely find the type of dog which will fit best with your lifestyle.
Many of these dogs have never been allowed to play or walk on the grass. Some have never heard kind words or felt an affectionate pat on the head. But when given the chance to be part of a family, rescued dogs can thrive and grow into happy, healthy, furry members of your family. Dogs who have been given a second chance in life often become some of the most loyal and grateful dogs you will ever experience.
Where to Adopt
I have listed some reputable rescue groups that I have researched or become familiar with. But I also urge you to check with your local shelter, as they may have the type of dog you are looking for. And, you may save a dog’s life. Some shelters have a “kill” policy after long stays or when their facility reaches capacity.
You may also be surprised who you fall in love with or feel drawn toward the most when you visit a shelter. Be sure to see my post Everything You Need to Know About Adopting a Rescue Dog for a comprehensive guide.
My links to organizations are just a sampling. There are many additional organizations that you may also want to work with. Make sure they are a reputable organization registered as a 501(c)3 nonprofit. You can check their status on Guidestar.org which often includes 3 years of tax returns.
One additional note, you should steer away from private groups, especially those online, since they may be puppy mills in disguise. Also, buying a dog from a pet store probably saves that dog’s life. But just know that pet stores usually get their dogs from puppy mills. So, in the long run, don’t support retailers who sell dogs by buying their products.
Two very reputable online services include Petfinders.com and AKC Rescue Network. They can help you find breed-specific dogs of various ages, including puppies and seniors.
Check Out These Categories of Dogs Who Really Need a Home
On the following pages, I have selected specific breeds or types of dogs that are very much in need of being rescued and adopted into good homes. Many other types of dogs also need help, but these are some of the ones that have pulled at my heartstrings. I will also provide some links to rescue groups and shelters that I have researched or become familiar with.
Click an image below to find out more about some of the categories of dogs that need to be rescued and adopted:
