The AKC Rescue Network is the largest network of dog rescue groups in the country, and was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in late 2013. One hundred sixty unique breeds are currently represented within the network.
More than 450 AKC Rescue Network groups are located across the United States.
AKC’s “National Breed Clubs” spearhead the bulk of these rescue groups, and it’s often breeders and fanciers that are at the heart of these rescues, rehabs and rehomes.
The AKC Rescue Network’s groups are unique in that the fostering/rehabilitation period lasts as long as is necessary before the dog is rehomed.
Foster volunteers provide intimate, transparent knowledge about the dog’s history, temperament, health concerns and special needs that allows them to place the dog in the best-fitting home.
According to a recent AKC Rescue Network survey, rescue volunteers said the top three reasons cited by owners for surrendering their dog are change of lifestyle, not the right breed for them, and lack of time to spend with the dog. They also said that the biggest issues they face are the lack of foster homes, manpower, and funding.
To join the AKC Rescue Network, please provide the following information in an e-mail to breedrescue@akc.org:
- Club/Rescue organization’s name
- Contact person’s name and address
- Information to be posted including name, address, phone number, e-mail, website