Help us raise money

Connecting People & Pets: At Ruff Start Rescue, we believe a better world is possible when we come together—as people, pets and a community.

Mission: Ruff Start Rescue is dedicated to saving the lives of animals in need. We improve animal welfare in communities through adoption, education, and providing resources for people and pets.

We are a foster home-based nonprofit 501(c)(3,) no-kill animal rescue. We rescue stray, neglected, abandoned, and surrendered dogs and cats as well as ferrets, guinea pigs, rabbits, and other critters and connect them to families to forge lifelong connections. 

Foster-based by Choice: We do not have a shelter. We believe a home environment is far more desirable than a shelter or kennel. We rely exclusively on volunteers to provide foster homes for rescued pets until they find their forever homes.

We operate largely through volunteers and donations, with more than 600 volunteers working with the rescue transport animals, serving as foster families, coordinating adoptions and much more. Without them and their countless hours of service, Ruff Start Rescue could not exist.

Donations: Ruff Start Rescue exists because of the incredible generosity of our supporters. Donations from animal lovers like you make our lifesaving work possible, and we sincerely appreciate your support!