Celebrate Dog Rescue Day! Paw-sitive Ways to Help Rescue Dogs Near You & Worldwide - Doggo Mojo

Celebrate Dog Rescue Day! Paw-sitive Ways to Help Rescue Dogs Near You & Worldwide

Written by: Mojo the Dog

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Published on

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Time to read 21 min

Olá, adoptees! This adorable pup is sending out international vibes with their "Adote Me" bandana!

Alright, you awesome pack leaders and fellow fluff fanatics! Get ready to wag those tails (yours or your pup's!) because May 20th is officially National Rescue Dog Day – a whole glorious day dedicated to the underdog... literally! Here at Doggo Mojo HQ, we're all about celebrating the happy dances, the slobbery kisses, and the pure, unadulterated joy that rescue dogs bring into our lives. So, ditch the doom and gloom, grab your favorite leash, and let's unleash some serious love for these amazing four-legged legends, right here in our hood and stretching across the planet! Get ready to be inspired and maybe even a little bit teary-eyed (the good kind, promise!).

"Saving one dog may not change the world, but surely for that one dog, the world will change forever."

Why Our Tails Are Wagging About Rescue (And Why You Should Trust Our Mojo!)

Woof woof, rescue rockstars! Here at Doggo Mojo HQ, our love for all things doggo is, like, off the charts! But we've got a special soft spot for the underdogs – the resilient, the quirky, the utterly paw-some rescue pups who just need a chance to shine. While we might be the new kids on the block in the product world, our hearts have been barking for rescue for ages! We've been digging deep (like a terrier on a mission!) to sniff out the most amazing rescue heroes out there, from your local legends to the high-flying heroes of the skies. Consider us your super-enthusiastic, treat-loving guides on this epic quest to shower rescue pups with all the love and support they deserve! We're not just talking the talk; we're ready to wag the walk with you!

You can see more about our commitment to quality, state-of-the-art design tools, and customer satisfaction on our About Us page.

Dog Lover Needed

As we celebrate the incredible impact of rescue organizations on this National Rescue Dog Day, it's also important to recognize the diverse ways these heroes need our support. One vital way to contribute is by offering your time and skills. Meet Thai Street Paws Rescue, an organization in Thailand working tirelessly to care for hundreds of animals. This short video offers a glimpse into their sanctuary and how you can directly make a difference by volunteering with them.

Learn how your love for dogs can make a real difference by volunteering at Thai Street Paws Rescue in Thailand. See their beautiful sanctuary and the animals who need your help.

Local Heroes: Supporting Dog Rescue in Your Community

Listen up, Mojo Mavens! The real heart-throb heroes of the dog world? Your local animal shelters and rescue squads! These folks are on the ground, day in and day out, scooping poop, doling out cuddles, and working their tails off to give pups who've had a rough start a brand-spanking-new chapter. They're like the fairy godparents of the furry realm, turning sad stories into happy endings, one wag at a time.

Sniffing Out Your Local Lifesavers

Wanna join the local rescue fan club? It's easier than getting your dog to chase a squirrel! Here's the lowdown on finding the awesome humans in your area:

  • The Magic of the Interwebs: Type "[your city/county] animal shelter" or "[your city/county] dog rescue" into that magical rectangle on your screen. Boom! Instant access to local heroes. Sites like Petfinder (https://www.petfinder.com/) and Adopt-a-Pet.com (https://adoptapet.com/) are like Tinder for dog lovers – just pop in your zip code and get ready to swipe right on some adorable faces!
  • The Neighborhood Bark: Your local community groups on social media? Goldmines! Rescues are always sharing their adoptable cuties and upcoming events there. Plus, your neighbors might have the inside scoop on the best local groups.
  • Your Furry Friend's Doc: Your amazing vet? They're practically BFFs with all the local rescues. They can point you in the direction of the most pawsome organizations around.

Become a Local Legend: Ways to Unleash Your Inner Rescue Hero

Ready to get your Mojo working for the local pups? Here's how you can be a total rockstar:

  • Adoption: The Ultimate Level-Up! (More on this heartwarming adventure later!)
  • Fostering: Rent-a-Pup, Save a Life! Think of it as being a temporary superhero cape for a dog in need. You provide the comfy digs and the love, they get to de-stress and learn the ropes of home life. Win-win!
  • Volunteering: Get Your Hands (and Paws) Dirty! Walking dogs, cleaning up after happy accidents, helping out at events – every little bit of your time is like a superpower for these organizations.
  • Donations: Show the Love with Loot! Rescues run on kindness and cash. Every dollar you donate helps with food, vet bills, and all the good stuff. Think of it as investing in a future filled with wagging tails! They also dig getting donations of food, blankets, and toys – it's like their version of a treasure chest!
Mixed breed dog wearing a cardboard sign that says "Take me home."
Every dog deserves a place to call home. Could yours be the one? Connect with your local shelter today!

State-Level Support: Expanding Your Reach

Okay, Mojo maniacs, you've conquered the local dog-saving scene – high five! Now, let's put on our superhero capes and think bigger... state-wide big! Think of these state-level animal welfare groups as the cool older siblings of your local rescues. They've got the bigger picture in mind, tackling the gnarlier issues and often swooping in with resources that individual shelters can only dream of. They're like the Justice League of the doggyverse, but with more fur and fewer capes (mostly!).

Sniffing Out the State-Level Super Sleuths

Ready to uncover these wider-reaching wonders? Grab your detective hat (or your dog's favorite squeaky toy – whatever gets the brain going!) and let's investigate:

  • The World Wide Woof: Unleash your inner internet explorer and search for "[your state] animal rescue league" or "[your state] humane society." These are often the big kahunas, overseeing a network of smaller groups. Think of them as the Google Maps for dog rescue in your state!
  • United We Howl: Sometimes, the smaller local heroes team up to form state-wide alliances – like a supergroup of dog savers! Search for terms like "[your state] animal welfare coalition" to find these powerhouses of collaboration.
  • Follow the Paw Prints: Keep an eye on your favorite local rescues! Often, they'll be connected to these bigger state-level players. Their "Partners" or "Resources" page might just lead you to the state-wide treasure trove!

Level Up Your Love: How to Be a State-Level Rescue Rockstar

Ready to make some serious waves across your state? Let's get your Mojo amplified:

  • Become a Barking Advocate! These state-level groups often champion important legislation for our furry friends. They'll need your voice to contact lawmakers and support bills that make life better for animals. Think of it as being a lobbyist, but way cooler and with more dog memes involved (probably!).
  • Big Leagues of Loot! State-wide organizations often host larger fundraising events – think galas, fun runs, the whole shebang! Participating in these is like throwing a massive bone to dog rescue across your entire state.
  • Special Missions Possible! Some state groups run specific programs that tackle big issues like disaster response for animals or state-wide spay/neuter initiatives. Supporting these targeted efforts is like being a specialist superhero with a very important mission.
Young boy gently hugging the neck of an older golden retriever dog.
Across our state, dedicated organizations are working tirelessly to create more moments like this. Find out how you can support their life-changing work.

"Every dog deserves a second chance. Be part of their happy ending."

National Impact: Organizations Making a Difference Across the Country (Primarily US Focus)

Alright, Mojo maestros, we've gone local and statewide – now it's time to think BIG! We're talking about the national heavy hitters, the organizations with a reach as wide as a Great Dane's yawn and an impact that reverberates across the entire USA. These are the big leagues of dog rescue, tackling nationwide issues and providing support on a massive scale. Think of them as the Avengers of the animal welfare world, each with their own superpower dedicated to saving furry lives!

Let's Meet the National All-Stars (Prepare for Some Serious Goodness!)

You've probably heard whispers of these legendary lifesavers, but let's give them a proper, Mojo-style shout-out:

  • The ASPCA ( https://www.aspca.org/ ): These are the OG animal welfare heroes, the ones who've been fighting the good fight since way back when. They're like the Batman of the animal kingdom, swooping in to rescue critters and take down the bad guys (animal cruelty, that is!).
  • The American Humane Society ( https://www.americanhumane.org/ ): Think of them as the wise Yoda of animal welfare – they've seen it all and are champions for all things furry, scaly, and feathered, advocating for their safety and well-being nationwide.
  • Best Friends Animal Society ( https://bestfriends.org/ ): These guys are on a mission to make "No Kill" the norm across the land! They run a massive, epic sanctuary – think doggy paradise – and are leading the charge to save every adoptable pet. They're like the ultimate cheerleaders for second chances!
  • North Shore Animal League America ( https://www.animalleague.org/ ): Hailing from the Big Apple but with a national heart, these folks are adoption dynamos! They've rescued and placed millions of animals and are basically a non-stop happy ending factory.

Become a National Rescue Sidekick (From the Comfort of Your Couch!)

You don't need a cape made of dog hair to join this national league of legends! Here's how you can unleash your inner hero:

  • Donate Your Dough, Save a Doggo! These big missions need big fuel (aka, funds!). Every dollar you toss their way helps them rescue, care for, and rehome countless animals nationwide. Think of it as sending a superhero supply drop directly to a pup in need!
  • Become a Long-Distance Love Provider (aka, Foster)! Some of these national groups have foster networks that stretch across states. You could be the temporary haven a pup needs on their journey to their forever home – talk about a heartwarming adventure with a furry friend on loan!
  • Be a Digital Defender for Doggos! These organizations often rally support for important animal welfare laws. Signing petitions and sharing their campaigns online is like using your social media superpowers for good – let's make some noise for the voiceless!
Black dog wearing a partially visible "Adote Me" bandana, looking hopeful.
Countless wonderful dogs across the nation are waiting for their forever families. Could yours be next?

Global Guardians: Supporting Dog Rescue Around the World

Alright, Mojo globe-trotters, buckle up! We're about to take a whirlwind tour around the world to shine a light on some of the incredible organizations dedicated to rescuing our furry friends beyond our own borders. Because let's face it, the need for loving homes and second chances isn't limited by zip codes or country lines – it's a global paw-demic of compassion!

Soi Dog Foundation (Thailand) - The Big Dogs Battling for Better Lives in Southeast Asia!

https://www.soidog.org/


Okay, Mojo adventurers, let's journey to Thailand, where the street dog situation can be ruff (pun intended!). But fear not, because the incredible Soi Dog Foundation is on the scene! These amazing humans are like the superheroes of Southeast Asian strays, tackling everything from overpopulation with their massive spay/neuter missions to going head-to-head with the downright awful dog and cat meat trade. They rescue the sick and injured, give them a safe haven, and then play Cupid to find them loving homes across the globe. Soi Dog isn't just helping; they're waging a full-on, compassionate war for these deserving animals!

Thai Street Paws Rescue (Thailand) - Heartfelt Home-Based Rescue in Southern Thailand!

https://www.thaistreetpawsrescue.org/


Down in the sunny south of Thailand, the incredible Thai Street Paws Rescue, powered by the boundless compassion of Tamara Johnston and a dedicated network of volunteers, offers a truly unique approach to rescue. They operate a sanctuary that currently houses around 160 dogs , along with caring for another 15 dogs in Tamara's home and approximately 125 dogs on the streets that they regularly feed and provide care for. They also look after several cats, with one at the sanctuary, two in boarding, and many more at local temples. What's truly remarkable is the dedication of their long-term volunteers, who immerse themselves in the work by living on-site or nearby, providing constant care and companionship. Their core efforts focus on providing essential veterinary care, running vital sterilization campaigns, and ensuring all the animals are well-fed. Beyond these basics, they also dedicate time to socialization, preparing the dogs and cats for their future homes. Incredibly, Thai Street Paws Rescue even works to find adoptive families in other countries and relies on flight volunteers – individuals already traveling internationally who can escort a rescued animal to their new destination. This community-driven initiative showcases a remarkable commitment to these vulnerable animals in a region where resources may be limited and the lives of street animals can be precarious.


To truly understand the heart and soul of Thai Street Paws Rescue and the profound impact they have on the lives of these animals, we invite you to watch the following video:

As you can see in the video, the dedication of Tamara and her team is unwavering. However, as Tamara shared with us recently, the rescue is facing significant challenges that threaten its long-term sustainability. They currently care for a staggering 300 dogs and some cats in total. Finding local foster homes is nearly impossible, and with international adoptions significantly down and previous partner rescues having closed, they are urgently seeking new partnerships abroad.


Staffing has also been a major hurdle, with a high turnover of local staff. Financially, the rescue is struggling significantly due to global economic pressures, forcing Tamara to return to Australia to teach just to keep the organization afloat. Their vital community programs like spay/neuter and vaccinations have been severely impacted by these financial constraints.

Veterinary care in action at Thai Street Paws Rescue with founder Tamara administering a vaccine.
Essential veterinary care, like this vaccination being administered by founder Tamara, is a crucial part of Thai Street Paws Rescue's work, made possible through support and donations.

How You Can Help Thai Street Paws Rescue:

The need is urgent, and every contribution, no matter the size, can make a real difference in the lives of these vulnerable animals. Here's how you can directly support their incredible work:

  • Donate: Donate here Your financial contribution will help them provide food, veterinary care, and continue their vital sterilization programs for the 300+ animals in their care. Consider becoming a monthly donor to provide sustainable support for their ongoing efforts.
  • Spread Awareness: Share their story and this blog post on your social media platforms to help them reach a wider audience.  Follow them on social media:to stay updated on their work and help spread the word.
  • Consider Partnering (if you are with a rescue organization): If you are involved with a rescue organization abroad, please consider reaching out to Thai Street Paws Rescue to explore potential partnerships for adoptions.
  • Volunteer (Long-Term): If you have experience in animal rescue and are able to commit to a longer stay in Thailand, please consider reaching out to them about potential volunteer opportunities (as highlighted in the video at the beginning of this post).
  • (Optional) Learn More: You can also learn more about Tamara's dedication and the rescue's mission by watching her interview with Dr. Karen Becker https://www.barkandwhiskers.com/tamara-johnston-saves-street-dogs-thailand/ .

Let's come together as a global community of animal lovers to support Thai Street Paws Rescue in their time of need and help them continue their vital work of saving and caring for these deserving animals.

Animal-Kind International (AKI) - The Global Cheerleaders for Animal Welfare!

https://www.animal-kind.org/


Time to zoom around the globe to meet the cheerleaders of animal rescue! Animal-Kind International (AKI) is like the ultimate support system, empowering local animal welfare heroes in places like Africa and Latin America. They provide the grants and resources these amazing individuals need to make a real difference in their own communities. AKI knows that local folks often have the biggest hearts and the best solutions, and they're there to give them a boost – think of them as the ultimate high-five for animal rescuers worldwide!

Compassion Without Borders - The Border-Crossing Brigade of Kindness!

https://www.cwob.org/


Get ready for some international good neighbor vibes! Compassion Without Borders is all about spreading the love (and saving the snouts!) on both sides of the US-Mexico border. They're like the ultimate doggy diplomats, rescuing pups from tough situations in Mexico and bringing them to safety. Plus, they host awesome vet clinics, making sure everyone gets their health in tip-top shape. They're proof that a little compassion can travel a long, long way!

Up, Up, and Away to Adoption Day! The Magic of Rescue Flights

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to enter the stratosphere of dog rescue! Forget commercial airlines – we're talking about the VIP (Very Important Pups) express, powered by pure awesomeness! When a forever home feels like it's on another planet, that's when the air angels of rescue step in, turning "r-uff" beginnings into high-flying happy endings!


First up, give a massive round of paw-plause to the rockstars at Flying Fur Animal Rescue (https://flyingfur.org/)! These folks are like the canine air force, swooping in with their planes to whisk adorable doggos from sad situations to their waiting humans. Think of them as the ultimate wing-delivery service, ensuring that love (and slobbery kisses) arrives on time!


And let's not forget the legendary Wings of Rescue (https://wingsofrescue.org/)! These guys are basically the fairy godmothers of flight for furry friends. They're like, "Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo! You're going to a loving home... by airplane!" They take pups from "no-hope" situations and give them a first-class ticket to a brand-new, tail-wagging life!


You know who the real unsung heroes of this airborne adventure are? The volunteer pilots! These amazing humans are like the daredevils of dog transport, taking to the skies in their personal planes, fueled by pure kindness and maybe a few dog biscuits in their flight bags. It's like "Top Gun," but instead of fighter jets, it's filled with furry co-pilots!

Well-behaved black and white mixed-breed dog wearing a harness in a red soft-sided pet carrier, looking towards the upper right.
Buckle up, buttercup! This adorable pup is on their way to a forever home, thanks to the magic of rescue flights!

So, next time you see a plane, just imagine it's a "Pup-A-Roo" express, delivering a bundle of joy to their forever family! If you want to help keep these amazing rescue flights soaring, toss 'em some "wing-dings" (get it?!) – every donation helps these airborne angels continue their high-flying, heart-lifting missions!

"Warning: May spontaneously fall in love with a rescue dog. Proceed with open heart."

Do Consider This, Don't Think That: A Mojo Guide to Rescue Support

DOs

  • DO Consider adopting a dog in need. There are so many wonderful pups in shelters just waiting for their forever homes.
  • DO Consider helping a dog with special needs. These resilient animals often have so much love to give and just need the right patient and understanding home.
  • DO Consider fostering a dog if you're not ready for a permanent commitment. It's a crucial way to provide a loving temporary home and free up shelter space.
  • DO Consider donating to reputable shelters and rescues. Every dollar helps provide food, medical care, and shelter for dogs in need.
  • DO Consider volunteering your time at a local shelter. Even a few hours a week can make a huge difference in the lives of these animals.
  • DO Consider spreading awareness on social media. Sharing adoptable dogs and rescue events can help them find their forever homes.
  • DO Consider the long-term commitment before adopting. Bringing a dog into your life is a joyful responsibility that lasts for many years.

DON'Ts

  • DON'T Buy a dog from a breeder or pet store when so many deserving animals need rescuing ("Adopt, Don't Shop!").
  • DON'T Think that a dog with special needs is "broken" or too much trouble. They adapt beautifully and offer unique rewards.

  • DON'T Underestimate the impact of fostering – you're often a dog's bridge to their forever family!


  • DON'T Think that small amounts don't matter – every little bit adds up!

  • DON'T Make commitments you can't keep, as the shelters rely on consistent help.

  • DON'T Share without verifying the information first to ensure it's accurate and current.

  • DON'T Adopt on impulse without considering the time, financial, and emotional investment involved.

From Our Pack to Yours: Let's Save Some Pups!

Alright, Mojo mavens, gather 'round for the grand finale! We've journeyed from the cozy corners of your local shelters to the high-flying adventures of airborne rescues, proving one thing: the world of dog rescue is packed with more heart than a room full of Saint Bernards! These incredible humans (and maybe a few exceptionally helpful cats... who knows?) are all working their tails off to give every deserving dog their very own "happily furever after."


National Rescue Dog Day on May 20th is like the ultimate doggy appreciation party, but let's be real – these amazing pups need our love and support 365 days a year (plus leap years, because why not?). Whether you're ready to welcome a furry overlord into your home through adoption or fostering, have some spare time to unleash your inner volunteer, or just want to "Donate Your Dough, Save a Doggo!" with a few well-aimed dollars, every little bit is like a superhero treat for a pup in need.


So, your mission, should you choose to accept it (and trust us, the rewards are endless in slobbery kisses and wagging tails!), is to find your dog rescue spirit animal and get involved! Explore the local legends, high-five the national heroes, send some love across the globe, or even become a fan of the "Pup-A-Roo" express!

Closeup of a human hand giving a high-five to a brown dog
Ready to lend a hand (or paw)? There are so many ways to support rescue dogs in your community!

Now go forth, Mojo-ites, and unleash your inner rescue rockstar! Share this post like it's the tastiest bone in the park, bark about your own rescue heroes in the comments, and let's create a stampede of support for these amazing animals. Together, we can make sure every dog gets their chance to live the good life – filled with belly rubs, zoomies, and maybe just one extra treat (our little secret!). 

Woof!
Mojo

"Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened."

- Attributed to Anatole France

Mojo's Paw-some Points: Your Rescue Cheat Sheet!

Celebrate National Rescue Dog Day (May 20th!): It's the perfect time to show some love to rescue pups!

Think Local Heroes: Support your community shelters and rescues through adoption, fostering, volunteering, and donations.

Expand Your Paw-Print State-Wide: Look for and support organizations working on animal welfare across your state.

Go Big with National Impact: Consider the significant work of national organizations like the ASPCA, American Humane Society, Best Friends, and North Shore Animal League America.

Global Guardians Unite: Learn about and support international efforts like Soi Dog Foundation, Thai Street Paws Rescue, Animal-Kind International, and Compassion Without Borders.

Up, Up, and Away to Adoption Day! Discover the amazing work of flying rescue organizations like Flying Fur and Wings of Rescue.

Do Consider This, Don't Think That: Follow our Mojo-approved guide for effective and ethical ways to support rescue.

Your Mission: Get Involved! Find one way, big or small, to support dog rescue today and spread the word!

Shop Our New "Happy Gotcha Day" Collection! The perfect way to celebrate rescue adoptions is here!

Gotcha Day Dreams Collection

Got Questions, Get Zany Answers! Your Dog Rescue Brain Ticklers, Solved Mojo Style!

I wanna be a hero, but my cape's at the cleaners. How else can I rescue a pup (besides, you know, actual heroics)?

Fear not, capeless crusader! You can unleash your inner awesome by fostering (think of it as being a temporary superhero hideout!), volunteering your time (even scooping poop is heroic in our book!), donating your hard-earned kibble-and-treat fund, or becoming a social media sidekick and sharing adorable adoptables!

How do I sniff out the good-guy rescues from the, uh, not-so-good ones? Are there secret decoder rings involved?

No decoder rings needed, just your super-sleuth skills! A legit rescue will have a website that's more transparent than a freshly cleaned window, telling you all about their mission and where the "dough-nations" go. Peep their GuideStar profile – it's like a report card for charities! And if your gut says "woof," trust it!

What kinda loot do these awesome shelters actually need? I was thinking of donating my collection of slightly chewed tennis balls...

While enthusiasm is appreciated, think less "pre-loved slobber sphere" and more "fresh, unopened goodies!" They're usually howling for unopened dog chow (check their brand faves!), cozy blankies (think snuggle-city!), squeaky toys that haven't lost their squeak, and cleaning supplies that can tackle even the messiest pup-tastrophes! Call 'em up or check their wish list – it's like their Santa's list, but for survival!

Fostering sounds kinda... temporary. Like a doggy rental? Is it really a big deal?

Doggy rental? More like being a superhero pit stop on the road to forever! Fostering is HUGE! You're giving a pup a comfy crash pad, showing them the ropes of home life (like where not to potty indoors!), and freeing up a spot at the shelter for another dog in need. You're basically a canine life coach, and that's pretty darn heroic!

Shelters vs. Rescues: It's all dog-saving to me! Spill the beans!

Think of shelters as the emergency room – they take in all the critters. Rescues are more like specialized care units – they often focus on specific breeds or pull pups from shelters that need extra help. Both are vital parts of the dog-saving dream team!

Adopting a mystery mutt? Sounds like a plot twist! What kinda brainy stuff should I consider before signing the adoption papers with a pup whose past is a bit... hazy?

You're not wrong, it's like a furry surprise! But fear not, the awesome folks at the rescue will usually give you the lowdown on a dog's personality and health. Chat with them honestly about your lifestyle – are you a marathon runner or a couch connoisseur? And hey, a trial "sleepover" (aka, adoption trial) can be a great way to see if you're a paw-fect match! Patience and positive vibes are your secret weapons!

What's this I hear about a "foster fail"? Sounds kinda negative! Is it like forgetting to water your houseplants (guilty!)?

Oh no, a "foster fail" in the rescue world is actually a HUGE win! It's what happens when someone with a heart of gold (that's you!) takes in a temporary foster pup... and then realizes they can't bear to let them go! They "fail" at fostering because they succeed at falling in love and adopting! It's the best kind of "oops!" moment in the dog-saving universe! Think of it as a foster win in disguise – the pup gets a forever home, and you get a furry best friend! It's a total Mojo-approved happy ending!

Dog walking down a country road carrying a stick

Mojo the Dog: Chief Taste Tester

Mojo is a lovable pup with an insatiable appetite for adventure and new products. As the official taste tester and quality control expert at Doggo Mojo, he ensures that every item meets the highest canine standards. When he's not busy trying out new toys or sniffing out the latest trends, Mojo enjoys long walks, belly rubs, and the occasional nap.

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