Grants for Rescue Dogs

Rescuing dogs takes dedication and a passion for dogs that need extra special care. The sad reality is that it also takes a lot of money. Funds needed for food, supplies and vet care can be found through various grants. There are several organizations that give grant money to nonprofit organizations dedicated to rescuing dogs. The organizations in this list are just an example of the opportunities that are available for dog rescue organizations.

  1. American Kennel Club

    • Through their AKC CAR Canine Support and Relief Fund, the American Kennel Club has several grants available to organizations that specialize in caring for pets in disasters. Nonprofit shelters and other pet rescue organizations caring for dogs after natural disasters such as a tornadoes, floods or hurricanes can qualify for this grant. The AKC provides its 10 page grant application online. Grants are made in any amount up to $10,000. Applicants will need to provide their organization's budget documents and clearly state how the money will be used to meet the goals of the Canine Support and Relief Fund.

    Maddie's Fund

    • A well loved and cared for Miniature Schnauzer named Maddie is the inspiration for Maddie's Fund. Based in California, Maddie's Fund's mission is to create a "no kill nation" where all companion pets in the U.S. find homes. To this end they focus their financial support for organizations that develop community partnerships, veterinarian education on pet welfare and national statistic reporting. Dog rescues that are part of a community coalition can apply for their Starter Grants. Organizations that care for more than 2,000 pets each year can apply for a Community Collaborative Project grant to support spay and neuter or adoption programs. Community pet rescue coalitions that make impressive gains in becoming a no kill community are eligible for their Lifesaving Award which comes with a grant of $200,000 to $3,000,000. Their 2009 Lifesaving Award fo $474,000 was given to The Berkeley Alliance for Homeless Animals Coalition. They maintained a no kill status since 2002 "in spite of the fact that many of the animals awaiting adoption are pit bulls and pit mixes" or are otherwise usually difficult to adopt out pets such as the elderly and un-socialized.

    Land of Pure Gold Foundation

    • The Land of Pure Gold Foundation was born out of a love for Golden Retrievers and a family's struggle with cancers that affected their dogs. The organization includes all dogs in its mission and focuses their dog saving efforts on working dogs and cancer. Through their Harley Working Dog Cancer Treatment Grant, any working or assistance dogs, which are often rescued dogs, can apply for an individual grant of $500 to cover cancer care costs.