Rescue & Adoption Activities

At the heart of Marin Mutts is our core mission: rescuing dogs from shelters and placing them in loving forever homes. As a small organization, we focus our limited resources on making the biggest impact possible for individual dogs in need.

Shelter Rescue Operations

We work closely with several partner shelters in Northern California to identify and rescue dogs who:

  • Have exceeded their shelter's holding capacity
  • Need medical care beyond the shelter's resources
  • Display stress behaviors in the shelter environment
  • Are at risk due to age, breed, or special needs
  • Have been overlooked by adopters for extended periods

Recent Rescue Stories

April 2025 - The Shelter find

A young, male, medium-sized mixed breed dog was facing euthanasia at an overcrowded rural shelter when our volunteer spotted him during a routine visit. Despite limited foster space, our team mobilized quickly to secure temporary housing. Initially shut down from the shelter environment, he has gradually emerged from his shell in his foster home, revealing a playful personality that had been hidden behind kennel doors. His transformation from a dog who would hide in the corner to one who greets visitors with a wagging tail demonstrates the impact of patient, loving care.

March 2025 - PUppy Second Chances

A 6-month-old terrier mix puppy was surrendered to a shelter when his family could no longer care for him. Despite his adorable appearance, the shelter was at capacity, putting him at risk. Within our care, he received proper vaccinations, training for basic commands, and blossomed in his foster home. After several meet-and-greets, he found his perfect match with a family seeking an energetic companion for their active lifestyle. His youthful enthusiasm and quick learning ability made him a joy to place, and he now enjoys daily adventures with his forever family.

February 2025 - The Husky Rescue

A male husky mix was scheduled for euthanasia at a high-intake shelter due to lack of space and resources. We coordinated an emergency rescue and placed him with an experienced foster. His striking blue eyes and dramatic coat masked an initially wary temperament, but with consistent positive experiences, he has grown into a confident, affectionate companion. His foster family reports he's mastered basic commands and enjoys long walks and interactive play sessions. This intelligent, energetic dog is now awaiting his forever family who can appreciate his unique personality and provide the active lifestyle he thrives in.

January 2025 - New Year, New Beginning

A mixed-breed dog with untreated mange was found as a stray and brought to a local shelter. His medical needs were extensive, but our small team was determined to help. Through dedicated veterinary care and a patient foster home, his physical wounds healed alongside his emotional ones. Recently adopted by a family with a large fenced yard, he now enjoys daily adventures with his new canine sibling.

December 2024 - Holiday Miracle

A schnauzer mix with dental issues was overlooked at a partner shelter for months. Despite his sweet temperament, his age and medical needs deterred potential adopters. Our volunteer noticed his gentle soul during a pre-holiday shelter visit and arranged his transfer to our program. After dental surgery and recovery in a nurturing foster home, he spent the holidays discovering the joy of soft beds and gentle affection. He now serves as an ambassador at our adoption events, his transformation inspiring visitors.

The Journey from Rescue to Home

Each dog in our program follows a similar path:

  1. Identification & Intake: We identify dogs in need through shelter partnerships and carefully assess if we have the resources to properly care for them.
  2. Medical Evaluation: Every dog receives a thorough veterinary examination, appropriate treatments, and spay/neuter surgery if needed.
  3. Foster Care: Dogs live in foster homes where they receive personalized care, basic training, and behavioral assessment in a real-life environment.
  4. Getting to Know Each Dog: During the foster period, we learn about each dog's personality, preferences, and needs to ensure we can match them with the right forever home.
  5. Finding the Perfect Match: We carefully screen potential adopters to find the best match for each dog's specific needs and temperament.
  6. Adoption: When the right match is found, we finalize the adoption with a thorough adoption contract and transition plan.
  7. Post-Adoption Support: Our relationship with adopters continues after adoption, providing guidance and support as needed.

© 2025 Marin Mutts Dog Rescue Inc.
Registered 501(c )(3). EIN: 33-2614290
Email: [email protected]

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