International Rescue FAQs
Why international rescue?
We get this question a lot! Our mission is to save golden retrievers in need and we know there are goldens in other countries that need us. There is NEVER a domestic golden turned away because of our international efforts. We believe a golden retriever should have a loving forever home, regardless of where it comes from.
Where do we rescue from?
Although we have rescued a few goldens from China in the past, our primary focus is goldens from Turkey. We have formed wonderful and trusting relationships with rescuers there and are proud to partner with them. To date (since 2016) we have rescued 160 international goldens and want to continue those efforts.
Who do we save?
We try to focus on purebred golden retrievers (and a few golden mixes), many of whom were abandoned, neglected or abused. They are facing a difficult life with very little chance of adoption in their home country. Working closely with our rescue partners, we accept dogs who generally have that typical golden temperament and will make wonderful pets for our adoptive families.
What does it entail?
There is a ton of behind the scenes paperwork needed to ensure compliance with both CDC and USDA regulations. It can be complicated and attention to detail is required, but we follow all steps to be sure our goldens are being imported safely. Prior to arrival here in the U.S., all dogs receive rabies, DHPP, leptospirosis, and Bordetella vaccines. Additionally they are tested for heartworm, tick-borne diseases, brucellosis, and leishmaniasis.
When do we travel?
The dogs’ arrival is dependent on having flight volunteers to bring them over. Usually these are people already traveling from Turkey to Washington, DC for various reasons, and they are kind enough to allow the dogs to accompany them. At times we will pay for volunteers to make the flight, but that of course increases our costs. Once we are aware of an available flight volunteer, we ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed.
How can I help?
We are always looking for ground transporters, flight volunteers, donors, fosters, and people with a passion for saving dogs. If this is you, we need you! We are also looking for ways to keep our costs down, and are considering a campaign to collect donated air miles. This would help cover the tickets for our flight volunteers. If you are familiar with this process or have miles to donate, please let us know at fostering@adoptagolden.com. Also let us know if you may be planning an international trip and coming home from Istanbul, as we would love to have you as a flight volunteer.
International Donations
It’s no secret that it costs quite a bit to bring our international dogs to the states. With the rising prices of airline tickets, airline crates, vet care in Turkey, meeting CDC requirements (including expensive rabies titers and a vet exam/rabies vaccine at an approved facility on arrival), our international dogs cost over $2000/dog. We know it’s a lot of money, but we think they are worth it.
Will you help us help them?
To make a donation to our international efforts, click here: Donate
TARCIN
Tarcin is only 9 months old and was left by her owner in the Konya shelter. Thankfully she didn’t stay long before she was taken into the care of our rescue partners. She is a typical energetic puppy who dreams about her happy life ahead in the U.S. Thank you for getting her here!
DAISY
Daisy once belonged to a hotel owner in Agva, a popular resort destination near Istanbul. She was purchased as a puppy but left unattended as she got older, and had several litters of mixed breed puppies from the street dogs. Her owner wanted to leave her at the shelter, but she was taken into rescue instead. She has been treated for skin issues and parasites, and patiently waits her turn to come to the U.S. She is here and very happy with her foster family.
DUMAN
Duman is a handsome 5-year-old boy from the district of Gebze. Abandoned by his family, he was kept by some university students for a while and then left to the streets. Thankfully an animal lover found him and placed him in the care of rescue. He deserves much better than that and hopes to arrive here in early April. Duman is loving the USA!
NAZ
Naz came from a breeding farm and ended up in a shelter in Eskisehir. One of the shelter volunteers saw how shy and scared she was, so she took her home until she could find a rescue. She is still a little shy but otherwise has that typical golden temperament. She is only 2 years old and wants to spend the rest of her life with a family in VA. Real grass is her favorite – she enjoys running around and playing with her foster brother.
