Helping Rescue Dogs of all Breeds Find Their Forever Homes
By Susan Spisak
Since 2005, the 501(c) (3) all-volunteer, foster-based Almost Home Rescue of New England (AHR) is dedicated to saving lives and finding forever homes for stray, abandoned, and surrendered dogs of all breeds, most of whom are in high kill shelters—meaning thsey are in danger of euthanization.
Many come from overcrowded shelters in Mississippi, Louisiana, and North Carolina on a USDA approved transport following state guidelines. That said, they also take dogs from local shelters, veterinarians, and other situations that require rescue.
Joining AHR secures them a new lease on life, and they don’t take that lightly. Thus, AHR’s policy is to rescue for life, and if any of their rehomed dogs cannot stay with the adoptive family for any reason, they must contact the adoption coordinator at AHR before attempting to re-home.
AHR’s Treasurer, Margaret Haskell, explained that the number of dogs they can rescue aligns with the number of volunteers they have to care for them 24/7, “A lack of foster homes is still our biggest hindrance in being able to do more adoptions. I think it is a rescue/shelter-wide issue based on what I hear from folks who volunteer with other organizations.” Fosters are all-important to saving dogs’ lives because they’re often one step away from being euthanized.
The stories of their past lives can be heart wrenching, but fosters work towards a happy ending by opening their hearts and homes temporarily. Meredith Burwell Oestreicher, their Social Media Coordinator, said one such story truly reminds them why they rescue. “Buppy was initially surrendered to us at 9-years-old, and then was adopted and returned twice. A now 12-year-old Buppy has finally found his forever home. Buppy is silly and quirky and loved to eat green beans, so his new parents helped him plant his very own crop!”
She added, “They tell us that he is doing great and is loved so much! He settled in very quickly and seemed to know that this would be his forever home. He loves car and boat rides, walks, and snuggling.” Buppy goes to doggy daycare part-time and enjoys socialization. His mom sent them this update, “We feel lucky to be the ones that adopted Buppy, and he will always be our dog. He’s a great companion and funny little guy that brings us lots of love.”
Margaret shared a special German Shepherd, Luna, that they’d like readers to consider as she’s been seeking a forever home for a bit. “She has Inflammatory Bowel Disease, which was diagnosed and successfully treated, and she is maintaining well on her current diet and medications.” Sable-colored Luna is noted as loyal, loving, active, smart, and friendly. Check her out at petfinder.com/dog/luna-is-in-maine-42854319/me/portland/almost-home-rescue-of-maine-me65/.
AHR checks vet references, verifies landlord approval and references if applicable, and performs home visits. For information on fostering, volunteering, and to see all their adoptables, visit almosthomerescue.net. Donations are welcome and necessary as they often bring in dogs with special medical needs. Donate online at almosthomerescue.net/support-the-rescue/.
Luna
1.5 years old, Catahoula Leopard Dog Mix
Luna is doing great in foster care, is house- and kennel-trained, and is learning basic commands. She is looking for a family who will continue her training. Luna is young, puppy-like, and full of love. Because she’s a wonderful Velcro dog, she would not do well being left home alone for long periods of time. Her perfect placement would be where she has plenty of stimulation, opportunities to run, play, and have plenty of exercise.
Duncan
3 years old, Wire-Haired Terrier Mix
Duncan was recently returned to AHR as he had too much energy for a home with small children. We think he'd do okay with kids 12+ who’re able to respect his boundaries. Duncan thrives in an environment with structure. He loves training, playing fetch, figuring out puzzles, and thoroughly enjoys doggy day care. He needs someone who’s excited to further train and understand him. Patience, experience, and consistency are keys to Duncan's success. Duncan walks well on a leash, knows all basic commands, and would make a great walking/hiking buddy!
