If you have a decent WiFi connection and a love of all things furry and adorable, then technically every day is Puppy Day. But more specifically, March 23rd– i.e. today – is National Puppy Day.
Don’t panic – if you haven’t dedicated enough of your Wednesday to these cuddly little dudes it’s still not too late to celebrate in the cutest way imaginable.
Whether you’re looking to help out, foster a pup, or take home a pooch forever, there are plenty of great organizations in Canada who do amazing work and would love to hear from you.
Here are a few of our favourite dog and puppy rescue centres around the country.
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Home at Last – Surrey, BC
This not-for-profit organization is committed to finding homes for abandoned, neglected or abused and homeless dogs. Instead of having a shelter, Home at Last dogs are cared for in foster homes until they can find a suitable and permanent owner to take them in. Fill out an application to adopt here.
Moosonee Puppy Rescue, Bracebridge, ON
Paul and Sharon Purdy are behind this organization, which has been saving dogs from isolated Northern Ontario communities since 2003. Moosonee has links with Toronto’s Dundas West Animal Hospital, so for those who want to give their pup a forever home in the 6ix, you’ll have a trusted vet nearby when they need medical attention.
Black Dog Rescue – Toronto, ON
This volunteer dog rescue organization caters to the GTA, and contrary to its name, is dedicated to saving pups of all colours and breeds. You can foster and adopt the at-risk dogs, or if you’re not ready for a puppy of your own you can donate – the money will go towards pet (and non-pet related) supplies and vet bills.
Ottawa Dog Rescue – Ottawa, ON
Founded in 2013 by a group of dedicated dog lovers and experienced rescuers, Ottawa Dog Rescue is a non-profit charitable organization that offers foster and adoption for unwanted pooches. It also has an owner surrender application, so that those unable to take care of their animals any more can safely hand over their mutt so someone else can give them a forever home.
Winnipeg Pet Rescue Shelter – Winnipeg, MB
Manitoba’s first registered charity No-Kill animal shelter relies solely on the donations from the community to operate. So if you’re thinking of getting a pet, head over to the site now and view some of the adorable guys who are looking for a new home. All adoptable pets have been veterinarian checked and have a health certificate.
Rocky Mountain Animal Rescue – Calgary, AB
This sanctuary in Calgary is focused on housing and rehabilitating dogs that have been rescued from Northern Canada, Mexico, and California. The organization re-homed over 75 dogs when they went on a two-month mission to New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. Founder Rory O’Neill is a dog behaviorist and has been rescuing animals her whole life.
Kiko Dog Rescue – Montreal, QC
This small non-profit dog rescue is always looking for foster homes in the Montreal and Eastern Ontario areas, so even if you can’t commit to taking in a pup for love you can help out massively. But if you’re ready to provide a forever home, fill out an online questionnaire to get the ball rolling and find your perfect canine match.
Fulfilling Hearts Rescue, Moncton, NB
FHR has been matching dogs to adoptive families since 2013, and has a focus on rescuing and caring for animals that may have been considered “un-adoptable”. They cover the cost of medical treatments and while each dog is in foster it undergoes a temperament test and individual training based on its needs.
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