FAQS - Canine Haven Rescue

FAQ

Canine Haven Rescue was founded in Toronto, ON, however we are a foster-based rescue which means we do not have a physical shelter. Our dogs stay in private homes.

Who runs Canine Haven Rescue "CHR"?

Canine Haven Rescue is run by a Board of Directors, and very dedicated volunteers who commit countless hours of personal time and resources to saving dogs in need. Our volunteers are a fantastic group of people who make everything that we do possible. We prefer to interact with the public and our partners personally so that we are fully involved in all aspects of the organization.

Where does CHR get its funding?

As a not-for-profit organization, SCHR relies solely on the kindness and generosity of the public, neighboring businesses and other organizations for help in saving these lives. We have wonderful online fundraising auctions via our Facebook page, and the donations that we receive from adoptions go directly to our vetting fund.

Some of our supporters choose to make regular monthly pledges. Donating $5 or even $10 a month is a wonderful way to help our dogs. Any donation goes directly to medical care for our dogs, and is much appreciated. Without this support, we are not able to take on the more serious medical cases that we truly desire to.

How can i help you ?

There are several ways to become involved with a rescue organization like CHR!

Fostering: We are always looking for new approved foster homes. You set your own schedule and can request preferences based on what works best for your home. Please fill out an application to foster.

Screening: We can always use volunteers to do phone screening (45 mins), reference checks (30 mins) or Home Visits (30 mins).

Donate: Please see here for more information on donating. Thank you!

Where do your dogs come from?

CHR dogs primarily come from reputable rescue organizations in Mexico and Dominican Republic. While many rescue organizations abroad perform spay/neuter clinics, free vetting for family pets in need, and manage many donations – many dogs still find their way into shelters.

What about Canadian dogs?

First of all – Canadians are amazing! Local shelters also get dogs from US and Mexican shelters, as Canadians have been early adopters to rescue programs. We also have high standards regarding spaying and neutering.

The sad reality is that there are dogs all over not only North America but the World, who are homeless and in need of new forever families. There are many organizations in existence that focus on dogs from northern Canada, U.S and rescues worldwide. Our focus has been on dogs that need help in Dominican Republic and Mexican shelters. Without organizations helping these dogs get adopted, they can spend their entire lives in shelters, never having a home of their own. Many of these dogs are wonderful, sweet dogs yet would not have a chance at adoption unless they were brought to Canada.

Why so much screening before fostering or adopting ?

Our number one priority is to ensure the best possible fit for both you and the dog. Our adoption success rate is due in large part to the rigor we take in screening each family. Some of the top reasons dogs end up in shelters are lack of training, lifestyle changes (i.e. new baby, marriage), relocation, cost of dog ownership, not enough time for pet etc. Our goal is to ensure our adoptive families are well versed in the realities of dog ownership and ready to make a lifetime commitment. Your patience during our screening process is greatly appreciated.

Pet Licenses / Microchipping?

All CHR dogs are microchipped.

Licensing is the responsibility of a pet owner. Licences are mandated by your city. You will need to register with them.

Tracking Devices

All dogs will have Tractive trackers.

For further details please visit their website at https://tractive.com/

How do I rehome my dog or cat?

If you are looking to rehome your dog, please never offer it as “Free to a Good Home” as this is the most common way for animal abusers, dog flippers (those who take free dogs by pretending to be a good home, and then sell them) and others with very bad intentions to obtain free animals.

Your dog/puppy (or cat/kitten) could end up as bait for intentions for illegal dog fighting rings, in a puppy mill or with a backyard breeder (if you haven’t had him/her spayed/neutered), in a medical lab for vivisection/research, or harmed by sick individuals. Your animal has his/her best chance with you, a family member or friend. If you must surrender the animal, make sure it is to a no-kill shelter or a reputable rescue group, and be honest about the health and behavioral issues of the dog.

CHR is foster home based and our foster group has existing dogs/cats/kids (combinations vary). We are not able to take dogs with behavioural issues into CHR as we don’t have facilities to deal with issues that the surrendering family can’t deal with. We always recommend a good trainer. If the dog is “rehome-able” we are willing to cross post and help with screening, so that the surrendering family find the right fit for their pup.

Please note: Whenever we are able to take an owner-surrender into foster care, we strictly adhere to the Canadian Privacy Act, meaning that all previous owner’s information is kept confidential. All medial information is shared with the adopters’ own vet, however, with the original owner’s name redacted.

Get Involved

There are many ways to help our animals in need. If you can’t adopt consider becoming a foster home, a volunteer or donating.

Foster

Every dog relies on a foster parent to be their stepping stone to a better life.

Volunteer

Help a little or a lot. We have various positions and always need help. Join our team.

Donate

Don't have time to volunteer or foster? Sign up to make a one time or monthly donation.