Programs

At SmallDog Rescue, we focus on saving the lives of companion animals from heartbreaking, undesirable or dangerous circumstances and finding them life-long, loving homes. Following are programs have been developed, along with Furkids operations, to build what has now become one of the most successful animal welfare organizations in the South.


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Rescue

We work with volunteers, pet owners, and animal welfare organizations in the Atlanta area to identify animals in need and safely transport them to our shelter for immediate care. These animals are lost or abandoned pets, feral cats, and pets whose owners can no longer take care of them. They are animals of hoarders and puppy mills. And, all too often, they come from county animal control units or kill shelters and scheduled for euthanasia. We take the extra step of following the guidelines of The Humane Society of The United States when we conduct rescue operations.

Shelter

Bren’s House serves as SmallDog Rescue’s Intake Facility and as the location of our Quarantine area, our recovery (Quiet) area and our boarding area for SmallDog Rescue dogs that have not yet gone into a Foster Home or an Adoptive Home. At any given time, 365 days a year, up to 40 SmallDog Rescue dogs are housed at Bren’s House. Our shelter is inspected and licensed annually by the Georgia Department of Agriculture and all of our animal-care procedures exceed Georgia state requirements.


Foster Homes

SmallDog Rescue and Humane Society heavily relies on foster homes. Fostered animals temporarily reside in the homes of nurturing volunteers throughout the Atlanta area until they are permanently adopted. We provide food and veterinary care for the fostered animals. The short-term experience of fostering offers many individuals and families a practical way to explore the idea of having a pet in their homes and, therefore, we highly encourage the experience. Fostering also helps the animals adjust to a normal day-to-day lifestyle in a home environment.

Adoptions

Matching our rescued animals with life-long owners is one of our greatest joys. We accomplish this mission through the management of adoptions at our shelter, at PETCO and PetSmart stores, and at special community events, such as the Atlanta Pet Expo.  To help facilitate interest in adoptions, we utilize in-kind public relations support and various promotional tools. Our website makes it possible for pet lovers to directly arrange sponsorship or adoption of our animals.

Outreach

We actively provide educational resources about pet adoption and spaying/neutering through e-mail, direct mail, Facebook, Twitter and our web site. Our volunteer force also works diligently to staff our telephone and e-mail hotlines in which we respond to over 10,000 inquiries annually, ranging from adoption procedures to rescuing animals to medical emergencies. Whether at our shelter, the PETCO and PetSmart stores, community events, social networks or with media relations, SmallDog Rescue strives to communicate the important messages of animal welfare.

Kids helping SmallDog Rescue

Educating young people is one of the best ways to ensure the well-being of animals in the future. In fact, we are one of only a few shelters in Georgia that allow children of all ages to socialize with and care for animals. This opportunity better prepares our animals for adoption and promotes greater understanding of animals amongst the children. Contact volunteer@smalldoghumane.org if you are interested in learning more.

Student Partnerships

For older students, we provide tours and care-taking opportunities at the shelter, as well as at the PETCO and PetSmart adoption centers. Nearly a dozen local schools and colleges take part in monthly educational and volunteer activities.

Pat, and her face, supporting SDR.

Adult Volunteers

We take great pride in the large volunteer force of adults who get involved in our numerous day-to-day operations, special events, and fundraising functions that we host year-round. Currently, SmallDog Rescue has over 100 active volunteers from all walks of life and all across the Atlanta area.

Our thrift store is located in Norcross.

Thrift Store

Furkids established a thrift store in 2009 that is supported by donations from individuals in the community. The store generates revenue and boosts public awareness of Furkids and our valuable programs. In 2011 we achieved the milestone of operating the store six days a week and hiring a full-time store manager. All proceeds from the store go directly to benefit the animals.

Copyright 2011 Furkids, Inc. Site by Atlanta Computer Dude.