Glossary

Dog rescue

A non-profit or volunteer group that takes in dogs from shelters, owners or the street and places them in new homes, often through foster homes.

Also called: rescue group, dog rescue, breed rescue, rescue organization, rescue dog, rehoming

A rescue is an organisation that takes in dogs that need homes and finds new owners for them. Many are run by volunteers, and many keep dogs in foster homes instead of a building. Some focus on one breed, such as a Labrador or Greyhound rescue, while others take any dog. Rescues often pull dogs from crowded shelters, accept owner surrenders or help strays.

Rescues usually vet the dog, which may include vaccination, a spay or neuter, a microchip and treatment, and cover the cost with an adoption fee. They screen applicants with forms, a home check and references, so that the match is good and the dog does not come back.

A rescue is not the same as a animal shelter, which is often a municipal or humane society facility that takes in strays by law. Some groups are not well run, so check for a nonprofit status and a clear contract, and visit before you commit.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Animal shelter A facility that houses stray, lost and surrendered dogs and cats, run by a city, county or non-profit, which returns pets to owners or places them in new homes. Foster A temporary home that cares for a dog until it is adopted, which frees kennel space and helps the dog adjust to life in a house. Adoption fee The payment a shelter or rescue asks when you adopt a dog, helping cover vet care and running costs, often including vaccines, spay or neuter and a microchip. Spay and neuter in rescues The common practice of sterilising dogs before or soon after adoption, set by shelter or rescue policy to prevent unplanned litters.