ABOUT US

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Best Friend Dog Rescue is a foster-based rescue located in New Jersey and is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We were founded in response to the overwhelming number of unwanted dogs and puppies being euthanized or abandoned on the streets. Our mission is simple: to save lives and make a difference—one dog at a time.

Since our founding, we have rescued and rehomed thousands of dogs and puppies. Unfortunately, the need never ends, and there are always more lives waiting to be saved.

As a foster-based rescue, we are not a shelter and do not receive any government funding. Our organization relies solely on adoption fees and generous donations to cover the cost of veterinary care, transport, routine medical needs, and the extensive treatment required for heartworm-positive dogs. Because many of the dogs we rescue are strays or pulled from high-kill shelters just moments before euthanasia, prior medical history and background information are often unknown. We do not perform DNA testing, and we ask adopters to understand that by choosing rescue, you are saving a life—not purchasing from a breeder.

Once an adoption application is approved, applicants will be contacted via email.

Return & Surrender Policy

Any dog adopted from Best Friend Dog Rescue that can no longer remain in the home must be returned to our rescue and may not be rehomed independently. All returned dogs must first be evaluated by our professionals.

• A surrender fee of $200 is required and will go toward the care of the returned dog.

• Dogs must be current on all vaccinations and medical care at the time of surrender.

• If vaccinations or medical care are not up to date, an additional $300 fee will be charged, and an appointment will be scheduled with our veterinarian to update the dog’s care.

Please contact us prior to surrender so we can begin the intake process. Intake placement can take up to two weeks depending on foster availability. Once approved, you will be asked to complete a surrender form.

The individual surrendering the dog must:

• Be 18 years of age or older

• Provide a valid driver’s license or government-issued photo ID

• Submit all available veterinary and vaccination records prior to intake

We strongly encourage all family and household members to be involved in the decision to relinquish a pet before proceeding.

We understand that surrendering a pet is an emotional and difficult decision. In many cases, behavioral challenges can be addressed through training or support, allowing pets to remain successfully in their homes. If you would like information on training resources or alternative solutions, we are happy to help connect you with appropriate professionals.

Thank you for your continued support of Best Friend Dog Rescue and for helping us save lives.