Day 31: Big Dog Rescue

About the organization

Big Dog Rescue is based in Sonoma County, California and works to rescue dogs from high kill shelters and other tough situations.  Before adoption, the dogs are taught social skills and basic obedience as well as getting microchipped, vaccinated and neutered.

Why does it appeal to me?

Big Dog Rescue is where my sister Emily got her one-of-a-kind dog Honey.  She's a labradoodle but looks like a wolf terrier.  [Happy birthday, Emily!]


Honey the magnificent

They have a big ranch and rescue dogs from life threatening situations.  What more can you ask for in a rescue organization?  Oh, that 100% of donations going to taking care of the dogs.  That's pretty great.  And oh my goodness do they have some adorable adoptable dogs.


Cadie, a dog available for adoption at Big Dog Rescue

I just learned about the Rescue Pledge, have you made it?  It shows your support for rescue dogs, your intent to avoid breeders and "pet store puppies" and your commitment to report animal abuse.  I'm in!  But only 4,000 people have pledged.  That should be 4 million!  Let's spread the word. 




Want to learn more?

To learn more, click here.

To donate, click here.

Like Big Dog Rescue on Facebook here.

Do you prefer to donate goods instead of money?  You can purchase a special, easy to clean dog bed that will be send directly to the charity here.



This is my last daily #30daysofcharity blog post, but come back tomorrow for a wrap-up post!

Did this series prompt you to donate to any of the organizations featured, or look for other organizations that accept microdonations, contribute in another way or volunteer?  I would love to know in the comments (which you can access even if not registered user).

Day 6: Shiba Inu Rescue

About the organization?

DC Shiba Inu Rescue finds shiba inus (a type of Japanese dog) in shelters around the country and finds healthy homes for them.  Many people purchase shiba inus from breeders or pet shops and are unaware of the care and upkeep for a primitive, active breed.  Many of DCSIR's dogs are from shelters and some are surrendered directly to DCSIR for rehoming.

Why does it appeal to me?

I realize this is a really specific, local organization, but I wanted to highlight it because I have been so impressed with the thoroughness that they vet (no pun intended!) potential adoptive homes for these dogs.  Shiba inus can be a handful, but they can also be wonderful pets.  They need someone who is consistent with discipline but gentle and loving.  (That's Rocco, one of our dogs, below.)

DCSIR is totally volunteer-based, and have a committed group that work tirelessly to find the perfect home situation for each dog.  It's a great model for other pet rescue organizations.  I used to do home visits for a border collie rescue, and one time I couldn't recommend the home for adoption, and I felt really bad.  But I was really happy that the organization listened to my concerns and asked the applicant to reapply when they had a safer, more stable environment.  I'm not a fan of purchasing dogs, generally, due to issues with safety and health at breeding facilities (as well as the large number of dogs that already need homes), so I like to support all kinds of animal rescue groups.  (As does my 3 year old.)

Want to learn more?

Click here to learn more about DC Shiba Inu Rescue.

Want to make a donation?

You can help support DC Shiba Inu Rescue at no cost to you by using Amazon Smile.  All you do is you start at Amazon Smile, pick your charity and proceed to buy your stuff on Amazon.  0.5% of your order gets sent to the non-profit you chose!  

Follow along with my challenge here on the blog or on Twitter with the hash tag #30daysofcharity.

Want me to see if your favorite organization accepts microdonations, or want me to feature it?  Post a comment below.