I adopted Buddy Boy in 2017. He has been my best friend and always will be. I was very lucky to link up with smiling dog farm. I smile everyday since I adopted my boy.
While reading the other reviews, I found myself nodding in agreement with the many accolades this wonderful organization deserves.
During the last four years, I’ve had the privilege of partnering with Smiling Dog Farms in sending rescue dogs to homes where they’re loved and cherished. I’ve visited SDF on a couple of occasions – one being a period of several days where I had the opportunity to watch Ricky, Doug and Nick tend to and interact with the dogs. Prior to arriving, some animals have only known neglect and/or cruelty, but they learn to trust and begin to heal because of the kindness and gentleness they’re shown. SDF’s standards of care and vetting are outstanding, and Ricky holds nothing back in providing everything the dogs need to become and remain healthy.
Smiling Dog Farms wants their dogs to have abundant lives, and just as importantly, they want the dogs to enrich the lives of the individuals and families that welcome them into their hearts and homes. Melody and Debbie dedicate many hours to becoming acquainted with potential adopters and learning what they want, and need, and Melody has a gift in her ability to place dogs where they live very happily and harmoniously with their families.
SDF’s compassion expands far beyond their facility. Dogs in impoverished communities have survived harsh conditions because of SDF's lifesaving assistance. Dozens more have been altered, thereby preventing or stopping what would otherwise be endless cycles of suffering in rural areas where the pet overpopulation is overwhelming. Animals that otherwise had no chance of escaping desperate situations are now safe, healthy, and thriving. I’m immensely grateful to SDF for their support and generosity, and for our friendship and partnership.
Thank you to all of the staff that made this happen. Melody worked with us the whole time, answered all our questions. We are whole once again. Gus and Ruby are so full of life. We are so thankful for Smiling Dog farms, giving these animals a second chance to enjoy their life.
Smiling Dog Farms is not only a great animal shelter, but they are a giver of second chances. Smiling Dog Farms stepped up and helped rescue an abandoned dog that showed up at my parent’s house that they were not able to continue caring for on a long term capacity. Ricky + team provided excellent care to Baxter for many months and helped him find his forever home, and I will forever be grateful to them for giving him a second chance at a loving home.
We live in the Northeast of New York state and after we lost our dog after 17 years we were heartbroken. When we were finally ready for a new rescue, the local shelters mostly had larger dogs and an overabundance of pit bull breeds. When we dealt with rescues, the red tape and lack of communication resulted in either the dog being adopted out from under us, or they would after we were approved, tell us the dog had behavioral or health problems. This went on for 6 months. I was getting depressed and frustrated, until I saw Freddy with Smiling dog farms. I fell in love immediately, but proceeded with caution because I was disappointed before. The experience with them was head and shoulders above all other experiences. Communication was top notch, they sent videos, pictures, anything I asked for and ALL my questions were addressed. Freddy was heartworm positive, but got excellent care with them and got all sorts of tests and shots necessary. BUT.....the little guy was in TEXAS !!! Again, Smiling Dog Farms assured me that this was a simple process. And it was. Where other rescues here in my area were asking $500. to
$600. For a dog, Smiling Dog Farms fee was $400. WITH TRANSPORT INCLUDED !!! Freddy and several other dogs were transported via truck for a 3 day journey with updates all along the way with photos showing them on stops. When finally got to pick him up, they not only gave us pages and pages of vet records but a goodie bag with about 4 chew toys, snacks, and a collar. He was also microchipped. Absolutely amazing....
We shortened Freddy to Eddy.... And have him now 8 months, and he is the most perfect little friend one could ever have. My husband and I are deeply indebted to this organization. They are a tribute to caring, nurturing and consideration for both the animal and the adoptees. We tell our story every chance we get.
They are honest, patient and accommodating. Everything that every rescue should be.
Five stars are not enough.....they get a Thousand stars from us.
Richard and Christine V.
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I tried in my area of upstate New York to adopt a dog since last year. Although we were approved, etc. the communication and response from the local rescues was extremely frustrating. We never were able to get the dog we wanted. Then I saw Freddy. (first pix below). He was scruffy, wild looking and adorable. He was found alone and afraid in a park. We fell in love!
Smiling Dog Farm ( Debbie and Melody) was fast to respond, sent me a plethora of pictures and videos and took me thorough the process and answered EVERY question I had about him. Although having to transport him from Texas to NY scared the hell out of me, I was assured every step along the way. Everything worked out as they had planned and kept me in the loop during the trip. Now I have my little scruffy boy trimmed a bit and neatened up, feeling loved and safe with me and my husband in our home as a member of our family. A GREAT BIG SHOUT OUT TO SMILING DOG FARM!!! I would highly recommend them to anyone wanting to adopt a pet and not to be put off that they are out of state. They are truly wonderful to work with and really care for these animals and want you to be happy with your new pet. Cannot say enough that can represent how happy I am that I followed my gut about them. Best decision I ever made. THANK YOU!!!
My husband and I recently had an excellent experience adopting the newest member of our family, Sadie (formerly Lilly), through Smiling Dog Farms. From the beginning, Debbie was incredibly responsive and helpful, even reaching out to us the same night we made our initial inquiry. Within a day and a half, we had a scheduled phone call with Melody to learn more about Sadie (Lilly) and to ensure we were the right fit for her. The conversation felt perfect, and we knew right away that we had found the ideal match.
After agreeing to move forward with the adoption, Melody kept us well-informed about the logistics. Debbie promptly sent us the adoption contract, and the payment process was smooth and hassle-free. The entire adoption experience was seamless and well-organized.
We especially appreciate how accurate Sadie's (Lilly's) description was compared to her actual personality. It’s often challenging to capture a dog’s quirks and traits in an adoption bio, but after reading hers and speaking with Melody, we found that Sadie was exactly as described—if not better!
What stood out most in our experience was Melody’s genuine care for Sadie’s well-being and her commitment to finding the right home. She provided thorough instructions on what to bring and what to expect during the handoff, and it was clear how much she cared. Her request for updates showed her continued interest in Sadie’s adjustment, making us feel valued and important in the process.
Overall, I would highly recommend Smiling Dog Farms for your next forever companion!
These people are amazing they have a beautiful facility. Always here for other local rescues as well.
This is Hanna. She was found as a stray at Melrose Park in Houston, TX with a plastic jar stuck on her head. Animal control came out, darted her, removed the jar and took her to the city animal shelter. I transported another dog from the same park to Smiling Dog Farms and I told Doug her story during the handoff. Hanna was on the euthanasia list for the following day. Apparently I said something right as he went back and requested Smiling Dog to tag her. In all his years in rescue, he had never asked to tag a dog before. He just always helped whichever dog the rescue decided to help. I am very grateful to Doug, Ricky and Smiling Dog Farms for not letting her story end alone, in a cold shelter after all she had already survived. This is just one example of the great things this rescue does to help dogs. They have a heart for rescuing and rehabilitating dogs and finding them loving, forever homes. I will continue to support their efforts to instill hope to the forgotten, neglected and rejected dogs.
I recently adopted two dogs through SDF rescue, Scottie and Queenie (now Nacho and Rosie). Melody and Debbie are dedicated, it was a pleasure working with them through the whole rescue process. They kept me informed and answered all my questions along the way. My little babies are so special and I'm forever grateful.
Adopted a sweet amazing dog from smiling dog, the staff was amazing friendly and super helpful ,the facility was state of the art and extremely clean when I went to go visit and meet with a couple of dogs I was interested in will definitely be recommending them to friends and family!!
I feed and rescue dogs that are abandoned at a City Park in Houston Texas and I rely on 501c3 rescues to take them in so that they can continue to get the care they need and be adopted correctly. Smiling Dog Farms is one rescue partner that I work with and they have helped me tremendously. They have taken perfectly healthy dogs to dogs needing minor or major medical and have found them homes. Ricky, Doug and Melody as well as the rest of the crew work very hard so that these dogs have a chance to find an amazing home. If I could leave a 10 star review I would.
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Ricky and his crew both here in Texas as well as Melody and her adoption crew in the Northeast are amazing. This is Bravo one Dog that was critical that went to Ricky and the Farm to heal. The love they give these Dogs is truly amazing. Bravo is just one success story from the streets. There have been several others who received the same TLC and have been adopted. As a street feeder/rescuer here in Houston TX I am honored to know them and to work with them.
Smiling Dog Farms transported our little Buddy from Texas to us in NY State. The whole process was easy and everyone was very communicative all along the way, including during the 4 day transport up to us!! We couldn’t be happier—-and a certain little spoiled dog agrees!!! Adopt, don’t shop!!
We adopted Lacy, a boxer mix in August. She has been an amazing dog, easy to train, well behaved, loving, loves cuddling, gets along with our other dog. The entire adoption process was easy and the workers wonderful. Thank you to Smiling Dog Farms!
My family and I recently adopted Lola from Smiling Dog Farms. Melody and Debbie were great and very informative every step of the way! They answered all questions and kept us up to date on everything with Lola. From her vet visit to her bath and everything in between. Lola has been a great addition to the family and we couldn’t be happier! Thank you Smiling Dog Farms for the work you do! Lola thanks you too
After losing my dearly loved, long time canine companion Arturo, I knew I would adopt dogs again - but needed time. I eventually stated to look at adoptable dogs on Pet Finder, and immediately came across a bonded pair, Ethel and Bertha, who tugged at my heart. I reached out to their rescue, Smiling Dogs Farm to learn more about them, but then had to back off as I was still grieving Arturo, and dealing with hefty pet emergency hospital bills. They were very understanding about this. When I felt ready to proceed, the dogs were still there, and I was offered a choice of fostering or adopting. Knowing that once they arrived at my home I would never want them to leave, I dove right into adoption. Understanding my financial restraints as a retired senior, Smiling Dogs generously offered me a very affordable adoption fee.
Right from the start I was sent photos and videos of ‘the girls’. As the date arrived for their journey from Texas to New York State I was kept apprised of every step of preparation, and sent wonderful pictures of them having their pre trip vet checkups and baths. As they began their journey, pictures arrived at each stage. I was counting down the hours! I only had to drive 1/2 hour to pick them up, as their wonderful volunteers from Rochester NY made the trip to collect them in Albany and bring them to my area. This was amazing! And especially wonderful for me as I dislike driving.
Ettel and Bierta (the Finnish version of their names) arrived in wonderful condition - freshly bathed, nails trimmed, completely vetted including blood work, and with ‘goodie bags’ containing the next months heartworm and flea and tick treatments, toys, and treats. Wow!
So here we are, a few months later. I can’t thank the rescue enough for allowing me the privilege of adopting these two dogs. The rescue has kept in touch to see how they have settled in. As both dogs are seniors, I know all too well that there will come a day when I lose them. When that sad time arrives, it will be Smiling Dogs that I reach out to, to find the next dogs in need of a loving home.
One last thing I want to mention - it is in the adoption contract that should I pass away, or become unable to care for Ettel and Bierta, that they must be returned to Smiling Dogs. This is an enormously comforting thought for me, that in that situation these two lovely dogs would be in the hands of people who would ensure they would be properly cared for and loved.
Thank you, Smiling Dogs, for the two perfect smiling dogs gracing my home.
I saw your story about Rdith, Huey, Dewey, and Louie. I truly wish I could give hundreds of dollars to everyone, I just don't have that kind of money. I try to donate to about 6 (six) different places and now you make 7. I can only give like $20. bcuz I want to help all. If everyone who received your letter gave you $20. it would all ad up. I wish and pray for SDF and thank you for everything you all do.❤️❤️
We found our sweet Bodhi through Smiling Dog Farms during the summer of 2022. Melody spent a ton of time over the phone with us discussing available dogs and helping us choose the best boy. We were told that he was blind from the beginning and all information regarding his health was shared openly. Melody kept in touch throughout the entire process updating us on when he was being vetted, where he was on his transport trip, and even while he was with his wonderful foster. They both provided us with tips on how to easily transition him into our home, especially as a blind dog. We still keep in touch and we are so thankful to be able to share all of his accomplishments with them. Bodhi is happy and healthy and we are so glad Smiling Dog Farms helped bring him into our lives!
We saw a puppy we loved on Petfinder, and he was up for adoption through Smiling Dog Farms. We reached out, half-expecting never to hear back, as that often happens with over-run volunteer adoption groups. I was so thrilled when we heard back from Debbie and Melody right away. They answered all of our questions, clearly explained the adoption, process for transporting him up to CT from TX, and even sent us videos of him so we could see how he behaved on the farm. You can really tell he was well-cared for and lived on the farm. Debbie and Melody met us at the designated location on his arrival date, and even kept in touch with us as we got him settled in at home, and worked through a little challenge we had- based on his puppy energy versus the low energy of our existing elderly lazy dog. 5 months later and Mulligan (formerly Bernard) is part of the family. He’s a goofball, eats a lot, plays a lot and makes us laugh a lot. He’s made friends with neighbors on both sides of our property and has them over to roughhouse a couple times each week. The highlight of his day is going for a walk each evening with his sister, the elderly greyhound. Nearly every day, Mulligan finds something along the route that he can pick up and carry along on his walk. He’s enjoying his life and we’re so glad to have him. A huge thank you to you very one at Smiling Dog Farms for bringing Milligan into our lives, and for all you do to help so many dogs year -round.
My family and I are so happy with our experience! Melody has been an absolute wonderful person to work with and made adopting our June Bug so easy! I would recommend them to anyone
I contacted Smiling Dog Farm through Pet Finder because of Bravo. His sad story touched my heart . Melody reached out to me to inform me of his adoption. She asked if we would be interested in another dog. She took the time to listened to what our concerns were. We already have a Jack Russell rescue Blaze and although we love her she’s not the easiest dog. Melody was amazing sending us photos of dogs and then videos of Charlie. He is a rescue from Louisiana.
They placed Charlie in a temporary foster home where he was safe. He stayed there waiting for transport . Charlie didn’t pass his health check because of a positive fecal test. He was treated and 2 weeks later transported north to Connecticut. My son and i drove from New Hampshire to meet Road Trip Rescue. Debbie from Smiling Dog met us at the gotcha day to help us navigate our meeting of Charlie. She questioned us on the environment Charlie was going to. She made suggestions on how to introduce Charlie to Blaze and told us what we could expect from a new transported dog.Debbie made the day so much easier for all of us including Charlie.
Charlie has now been part of our family for 2 weeks. He is the perfect dog for our family!!!
We are all totally in love with him!!!
I anticipated so many issues adopting a rescue dog that had not lived in a home before. I am very happy to report that Charlie has adjusted perfectly . Blaze and Charlie are already becoming buddies. Charlie is so smart and sweet
Smiling Dog, Melody and Debbie all went above and beyond to find us the best dog for our family. They also did the very best for Charlie keeping him safe and healthy until we could take him home.
I am very grateful for all the dedicated people at Smiling Dog.❤️
I had never heard of Smiling Dog Farms when I found the listing for "Liam" and I thought long and hard about whether I was willing to take the risk on a long-distance dog from an unknown organization. I am so glad that I did. Smiling Dog Farms were incredible. They spoke to me on the phone, sent a local dog foster mom to my house to give me pointers, and have checked up on me every step of the way. Adopting from them was speedy once I made the decision, and it was much more affordable than I thought it might be given the distance. It's clear that Smiling Dog Farms is committed to making good matches for dogs and their forever families. They even introduced him to cats and dogs for me before he arrived. So it was a gamble to bring a dog into my home without having him fostered locally first but it was ultimately a great decision. I'm crazy about our new family member and I think we all could not be happier. I would not hesitate to recommend Smiling Dog Farms to anyone looking to add a dog to their family.
Because of my living in elderly housing I needed to get a smaller dog. Smiling dog farms helped me for months and worked so hard to find the perfect fit. They are an amazing place. They brought my Precious up to me in Connecticut and we're so happy. She's such a loving girl. She loves to go for walks which helps me get out of my apartment. She is so special to me and I thank them with all my heart. I'd been without a dog for a year and a half and always want to rescue an older dog. Thank you so much for rescuing her and letting me become her momma.
There is a reason why Smiling Dog Farms has that name! We wanted to adopt a second dog and we’re fortunate enough to meet up with them on Petfinder. The original dog we looked at had been adopted but Melody actually called us and said she had some other dogs. We though “Jeremiah” was cute-but that was just the beginning. She sent pictures and videos, and promptly answered every question I had. Over the next couple of weeks-until he was transported- melody kept in touch and sent more videos/pictures. By the time we met our boy we felt like we knew him. He is a love. I would (and have) recommended Smiling Dog Farms to others. I wish I could adopt more dogs, and it would be Smiling Dog Farms I would go to!
My husband and I had recently lost our 7 year old fur baby who was deeply bonded to our other pup. After she passed we all were deeply depressed and our 8 year old was deteriorating badly. My husband got in touch with SDF and they were very easy to talk to and work with. We were very happy to welcome Wednesday (formerly Rose) to our home as she has filled a hole and stolen all our hearts. She has already reformed a bond with our other Pup and has brightened up our lives. We can’t thank Melody and everyone at SDF enough for bringing Wednesday into our lives.
Smiling Dogs is the most caring and amazing rescue I've ever dealt with. And I have had a lot of rescue dogs. They are thorough and follow up and are always available for any questions you may have. I have two beautiful boys Elvis and Rocky from there that I love dearly. You will never find a rescue who does what they do. They are absolutely awesome. And I recommend them to anyone looking to adopt. There is no one like them. They genuinely love each dog they adopt out and it shows in everything they do to get these babies the perfect homes.
We have had an incredible experience with this rescue! The communication and care taken was amazing and we love our new addition to our family! Bunny is so happy and so are we! Thank you Smiling Dogs!
We were originally in for a different dog, but it just wasn't the right fit for us. Melody recommended Sammy (Zane at the time) as a potential good fit and was so responsive with everything.
We met Sammy(Zane) with his fosters and it was instant connection. He's been an immediate amazing addition to our family. We have a few cats and that was always our biggest fear. He gets along amazing with them, even though we took it incredibly slow with introductions - he was so comfortable with the cats. He immediately took to us and is a perfect fit.
Smiling Dog Farms knew exactly what we needed and blew our expectations out of the water. They're one of the best organizations I've ever worked with.
My experience with Smiling Dog Farms was through my interactions with two incredible women, Melody, and Deb. I would say their main mission is for the well-being of their dogs and the people that adopt them. M & D are the most caring, compassionate, dedicated and welcoming advocates for the dogs in their auspices.
After completing a thoughtful and thorough application I had a lengthy and honest conversation with Melody. At the conclusion of our talk I believe we both felt confident about
our decision to work together. It is always somewhat uneasy to interact virtually but after speaking with Melody and meeting Deb a couple of weeks before my pup came to CT from TX made me feel secure and excited in my decision to adopt from Smiling Dog Farms.
I live in CT and Smiling Dog Farms is in TX. I can not review the farm where the dogs are kept up until they find their forever home but I can say that the dogs I saw that were adopted in CT, including my sweet boy were all in excellent health, spirit, and disposition.
For me the experience of adopting with SDF was emotionally moving in that I observed the sincere love and commitment these two women and I (can only) assume the rest of the staff at SDF provide for their dogs unconditionaly and every day making sure they find good, caring, loving homes.
Thank you Melody and Deb from the bottom of our hearts!
WG and Jasper
We had such a great experience with this rescue. Prompt replies, quick process, and they really helped to match us with the perfect dog. They were honest with us about her escape artist tendencies, which helped us to better prepare and manage any problems. Now that she has a loving forever family, brother, and a backyard to patrol she no longer tries to slip out. We’ve had her for over 7 months and according to our vet her health is excellent. She came up from Texas (our boy had as well) and seeing how heat sensitive she is I am so grateful to this organization for rescuing her and bringing her to us. Now she lays on my bed with me in 65 degree A/C since I overheat also. Perfect match!
I adopted my soul mate from Smiling Dog Farms a few weeks ago and couldn’t have been happier with my experience. I saw a photo of her on Facebook and immediately fell in love. I reached out to the rescue to inquire. The application process is thorough so they can make sure the dogs are going to great homes. They gave me all the information they had available, sent me additional photos and videos so I could get a real sense of her personality before the final commitment (though I was sold at first sight), and organized her transport from TX to CT so I could get her. Since picking her up, I’ve been in daily contact with the staff giving them updates about her adventures and her new life. Would absolutely recommend this rescue!
I can’t thank Smiling Dog Farms enough for their tireless work and the dedication and devotion they show to so many animals in need. They go above and beyond in caring for their rescues and in ensuring that they go to a great forever home. I feel very lucky to have been chosen to adopt Autumn and Poppy. Thank you for rescuing them and for picking us to love them forever!! Smiling Dog Farms is an amazing organization. Thank you for all that you do!!
Shelly Goodwin
Webster, NY
I help run a non-profit cat rescue in Houston. About 6 years ago a friend of mine that adopted from me, introduced me to Ricky at Smiling Dog Farms.
I did not know then what a positive and significant impact that introduction would make. But I sure do now.
Ricky selflessly takes his own time, of which we are all short of, and money, of which is usually even shorter in the rescue world to help out the kitties. Yes, not just doggos, but kittos too!
His efforts have saved us and other cat rescues thousands and thousands of dollars over the years by supplying low cost medical supplies, like flea prevention, vaccines and antibiotics.
These supplies, in turn, have helped thousands of kitties by enabling rescues to greatly reduce costs for standard vetting.
This has had a very positive impact on the Houston cat rescue community and the community overall.
From a personal standpoint, I know that Ricky always lends a hand, quietly, without fanfare, to people in need, after Harvey sent what he could to help others. during Covid he sent people sanitizer all over the country.
What I am getting at, is it not just dogs that Ricky helps, it's everyone.
From a dog rescue standpoint, hands down, 10/10. Ricky takes the dogs that no rescue wants or can take. Severely injured, aggressive, very senior... he welcomes then with open arms and heart and spares no expense to do everything he can for animals that have been thrown away like trash. It's really a beautiful thing.
I am excited to see what SDF has in store for the future with the 4 new state of the art kennel buildings.
Love you Rick!
Smiling Dog Farms has knowledgeable, friendly and caring people who answered all our questions before, during and after the adoption process of our wonderful dog, Luka. Melody and Debbie from Smiling Dog Farms took the time to get to know us and make sure we were a good fit for a forever home for Luka. We could tell they are very concerned about the welfare of their dogs. Luka came to us happy and healthy, thoroughly checked by a vet, up to date with his shots, neutered, microchipped with a very reasonable adoption fee. They were a pleasure to work with and we highly recommend Smiling Dog Farms. The Copelands
I have known and worked with Smiling dog Farms for 12 years. Ricky has taken in many shelter dogs who because of behavior issues had no future and no place to call home. He is compassionate and caring and the dogs receive excellent care. I have visited many times and the dogs and all the farm animals are happy and well cared for. The new buildings are state of the art accommodations for both short term pups and the permanent sanctuary dogs. Ricky and his staff have promoted and given so many needy dogs loving homes.
Smiling Dog Farms was the only sanctuary that would take a dog that I was fostering that attacked one of my personal pets. They kept Sadie for several years. She was spoiled and very loved. They always allowed me to come visit anytime I wanted, always kept me updated on her health and sent many photos of her. Sadie was given the opportunity to live a very long life thanks to SDF. Smiling Dog Farms is extremely compassionate about all the dogs and farm animals. They are treated very well and kept healthy. They are very transparent about everything they do. Although Sadie passed away a few months ago, I continue to support SDF because they are the best and love the animals.
As a new donor, I was surprised to get an opportunity to visit the farm. Everything was state of the art. All the dogs were happy and healthy. And it was spotless with no smell other than bleach. I’m was encouraged that my donation was well spent, and that they are expanding in order to get more dogs adopted. Every dog that comes through here has a story. And Ricky loves to tell their stories. And to show the before and after pictures. It’s a wonderful thing that they take in sick dogs and give them a chance they wouldn’t have otherwise. And sometimes the damage is so extensive that they cannot be saved. But that doesn’t stop them from their goal. They also place dogs that didn’t work out for their owners, finding them the loving family they deserve to have. The love and dedication Ricky shows to the dogs in his care is impressive.
Smiling dog farms is a wonderful nonprofit.
They took in a stray we found and in no time got Lane placed with a great home.
I have worked with Smiling Dog Farms as an adoption partner, an independent transporter, and the close family member of an adopter. I cannot recommend them highly enough! Any homeless critter fortunate enough to end up at Smiling Dog Farms is guaranteed to know love, before, during, and after adoption. Ricky and his staff work magic with sick, injured, shy, even aggressive dogs. Melody and Debbie work tirelessly to find the perfect forever homes for each and every animal. And they follow through and follow up, something a lot of rescues struggle to do.
Samatha’s Gotcha Day is July 25,2020 and she is all about love. She is very affectionate and just wants to please and be with me. After an initial period of getting to know she had a home and she was not going anywhere she settled in. Before Samantha came home she had a bath ,all appropriate vaccinations, and spade. Very pleased with the interaction i had with Smiling Dog Farms. Samantha was a perfect fit for my family
My wife and I became acquainted with Jay and Ricky when they started attending church with us. They had told us about their dog rescue and Ricky shared some info about it and stories of rescues. After they set up the rescue operation, they continued to develop plans to grow it and improve it. When we all were hit with Covid claiming Jay last August, it was a difficult time. We gathered around Ricky and helped him survive his own Covid. Ricky has continued to work on the plans and dreams for Smiling Dog Farms that he and Jay had created together. Two new metal buildings are close to being completed that will make tending the rescues ever better. To cut down on the costs of the construction, Ricky does much of the construction and maintenance himself. He’s quite handy. During these months since Jay was lost, part of Ricky’s coping has been sharing stories about different rescues, volunteers in far off states, adopters for some of the rescues, vet visits, and transports to get the rescues to volunteers or their new families after they were cared for and had improved dramatically. One story was about seeing a dog curled up on a piece of cardboard near a building and the weather wasn’t good. Ricky retrieved that poor animal and took all the care needed to return it to a full life of being loved and cared for. Pictures of Mika are attached. He truly loves the animals and that shows when he’s telling about them. He is going forward with the dreams that he and Jay began together.
Smiling Dog Farms has a great rehabilitation program that turns the worst situations into the best situations…
Smiling Dogs is Amazing, my little girl was heart broken after losing our little chihuahua Baxter last year he was her best friend so I reached out to them to let me know of they came across any littles needing a home as all of our dogs have always been rescues and we always try to go that route. Shortly after we heard about Buck who was in a high kill shelter in Louisiana we immediately said we'd take him and Smiling Dogs made all the arrangements and were able to get him transported to us all the way in North Carolina. Now he goes by Huck or Huckleberry and we can't imagine our life without him.
I found the love of my life Logan. They rescued him from being put to sleep in Texas. Then helped connect us and send him to live happily ever after with me in connecticut.
I knew I wanted a dog, but I needed guidance. After working with Smiling Dog Farm, I won’t go anywhere else. They took the time & patience to listen to what I needed in a pup. And they found that pup for me. Duke now Sullivan Duke was exactly what I was looking for, and my current dog needed. He’s amazing, fit into our family perfectly.
The people at Smiling Dog listened, they counseled and they advised. I know I can go to the coordinator with any questions that come up, and I’m able to update Sullivans foster home with pics.
I live in NC, the transport company they used kept me advised of their location at all times, and they arrived right on time. It was then that I meet my boy. I knew he was the right one for me. After I brought him home he transitioned so well with my current pup.
Why? Because Smiling Dog listened to what I needed. I’m forever grateful for them for matching me with my boy Sullivan, and his sister Reagan adores her brother!!
Match made in heaven!
I cannot say enough about the people, Ricky, Melody, etc., at Smiling Dog Farms who have worked many days, months, and years, absolutely tirelessly to find homes for dogs. These sweet dogs come in all shapes and sizes, from many different circumstances. Smiling Dog Farms sincerely takes the time to get to know the dog as well as the potential adopters to find the right match for all involved. It is heartwarming to see the true compassion and caring they show these animals each and every day. They treat these dogs as if they were there own. This is an organization that I personally will continuously contribute to so they can continue to positively impact the lives of both dogs and families.
Best,
Elizabeth Shea
I have adopted two dogs from SDF and also fostered another. They work hard to make sure the adoptive home is the best possible match. They were also very supportive after I brought my dogs home, checking in often to see how things were going.
Rudy was the first dog I adopted from them was 9yo and had been with them 6 years. They loved and cared for him when no other place would take him. I’m forever thankful for the work they do. After Rudy passed I fostered a dog for them and he was as sweet as can be... but I knew he was meant for a different family. SDF found that family and now he is so loved.
When I was ready for another dog of my own I reached out to SDF and they had just taken in a sweet girl they named Moon Doggie. She had been abandoned and was in need of loving care. SDF came through for her and I brought her home in Feb 2022. I named her Willow and she is such a sweet silly girl.
The SDF team puts their hearts and souls into the rescue, care and adoption of every dog.
It was the best experience we ever had we adopted 2 basset hounds but it didn’t stop there, they were just fantastic answering any questions we had and eventually formed a friendship with Melody Nichols who is just be best there is. Now I volunteer for them.
I absolutely love working with Smiling Dog Farms. I started out as a foster volunteer after my 12 year old lab passed away. I fostered several dogs over the course of a little over a year. Then, I met my Toby who was intended to be a foster but we couldn’t part with him. Both Melody and Deb were great through the process of fostering as well as adopting. They were always just a phone call away if I had questions or concerns. I would highly recommend working with Smiling Dog Farms whether you’re considering adopting or fostering (or like me, both!) I am so lucky we found our Toby. I never thought I would have another dog after the heartbreak of losing my Shay, but here we are!! Our family is finally complete ♥️
The owner is wicked and corrupt. This place needs to be shut down. All the positive reviews are fake.
This is the best rescue I have ever worked with. I rescued a senior handicapped dog who was well cared for and became the staple of me and my husbands life. We have since become fosters and have adopted 3 other amazing dogs. They are all given care based on their individual needs and are loved until the end even if they don’t have the chance to be adopted into a family. Their care goes above and beyond many other rescues. I know them from all angles and behind the scenes. They are professional, hard working, caring people who will never stop losing time, sleep, and energy for every dog that goes into their care. They work tirelessly to find the perfect home. If you want a rescue that will be honest and trust worthy they are the people to adopt from and send your donations. Every penny goes to the care and well-being of their dogs. Also just wanted to add they have never been in or any where near Tennessee.. so I believe the below reviewer was sadly mistaken.
I have been donating for a while without checking these people out on line. GLAD I DID!! If even ONE complaint, like the two I just did read, FORGET IT!!
I'm ashamed of myself for not checking them out earlier. The most recent request I got for MONEY was sent to me with a return envelope, red, white and blue, to look like a FED-X envelope, no postage needed. Who does this? An ordinary, non-profit rescue wouldn't have the money to buy these EXPENSIVE ENVELOPES, postage paid! (Only evil liars looking for money only)! These people should be shut down, or at least get those poor animals out of there! What they're getting from me is NOTHING!!!
What an incredible team of dedicated, caring and compassionate people at Smiling Dogs Farms! Our family has enjoyed so much joy and love since Charlie came into our home. Melody, Deb, and Louise were instrumental in helping our family find the perfect dog to suit our family of five. I could go on and on about my positive experience with everyone at Smiling Dogs Farms. I would highly recommend them for anyone looking to rescue a dog. Charlie came to us a happy, healthy and fun loving boy... we can't thank Smiling Dogs Farms enough.
Review from Guidestar
I have been donating to Smiling Dog Farms for approximately ten years. I became familiar with them while working in shelter/ rescue, they were they only place that would take a difficult dog we could not get adopted . After dealing with them and seeing how dedicated they were to their animals I became a regular donor and fundraiser for them. I saw my donations put to use for their animals on a daily basis. I was so impressed with their organization I adopted one of their dogs ,she was well cared for and well socialized. These are the hardest working people I know, totally committed to the animals in their care 24/7 and worthy of any donations.
Review from Guidestar