As previous owners of Akitas, we didn’t exactly know what we would be getting with a golden, especially a rescue one. But DVGRR took care of us, Charlie (was Eric) and educated us and made the whole process seamless. The work they do for these dogs is amazing and Charlie has been amazing also.
I first went to a DVGRR 'meet & greet' with the intent of adopting a young, female golden retriever, taking my 8 year old granddaughter along to help me choose. She 'fell in love' with an 8 year old dark brown Puerto Rican rescue with a permanent left head tilt who had remained unadopted for many months...so of course he became mine! And what a wonderful buddy he turned out to be...as well as the young female I went back to adopt after several months! Years later, she has now become the 'mentor' dog to Einstein who was all but feral when they got him, but has slowly but surely made great progress in allowing people to touch him, even proactively approaching me for petting! His roommate came along as well, so I am currently at 4 DVGRR rescues...and the peace of mind I've had each time knowing each one's personal & medical history (as much as possible) has made all the difference! I have done some volunteer work there as well, and seeing the staff devotion to the dogs & their mission is incredible. Far and above, a top notch operation!
I adopted my sweet Abbey from DVGRR in the summer of 2013 and had such a great experience with this rescue. Abbey was well taken care of during her time there and after adoption, they followed up with us to make sure things were going well and gave us great tips and advice to help her adjust to her new home. I feel so lucky to have been chosen as her adopter, she was with me for over 10 years and made it past her 16th birthday! I have been a DVGRR supporter ever since, they do such amazing work!
Over the past 17 years, we have adopted 13 senior dogs from DVGRR. Each adoption has been successful because DVGRR does an amazing job of evaluating each dog and matching its traits with the household of the prospective adopter, which includes other pets in the home. We have witnessed the expansion of this wonderful organization and its often unique fundraising procedures to accomplish its mission. It's always about what's best for the dogs. We wouldn't consider adopting a dog from any other organization.
We just adopted a mother/daughter pair of golden retriever mix dogs. These are our 5th and 6th adoptions from DVGRR. We keep returning because we have had such an excellent experience with DVGRR. The dogs are vetted so thoroughly, both medically and behaviorally, that we truly understand what we are getting ourselves into when we adopt. We have never been disappointed with our adoptions. As dog lovers, we truly appreciate the work that is done at DVGRR.
Our family adopted Willow from DVGRR on July 1st 2022. We were told about this rescue and how they take steps to provide the dogs with what they need to find loving homes. Absolutely the best thing we did,Willow is adjusted beautifully...I cannot say enough about DVGRR.
My parents adopted a golden retriever from DVGRR about 17 years ago. Since then, our entire family has supported DVGRR with donations, attending events, and spreading all the amazing things about it to friends and people we meet (and fully recommending DVGRR to anyone looking to adopt/rescue a dog). The volunteers at DVGRR are special people who do amazing work. We'd volunteer ourselves if we lived closer! We also represent DVGRR each year at our religious community's "Blessing of the Animals" event. My wife and I adopted a Goldendoodle from DVGRR in 2023. The communication and process was excellent and smooth and our pup is absolutely amazing! Our entire family can't say enough good things about DVGRR.
I have adopted 3 dogs from DVGRR and have had unforgettable experiences with them all. 10 years ago, we adopted 2 dogs from DVGRR. When I lost the second dog, I wanted another to fill the empty void. Although I considered other adoption places, I decided to wait for DVRGG to provide me with the match I needed. And they did. I don’t believe any other group could provide the kind of care that DVGRR does. In fact, my vet said she had never seen such complete health and behavior records as I had when I got my newly adopted dog checked.
I’m proud to be a volunteer for this fine rescue operation. The staff and fellow volunteers are devoted and caring, and give their all to make this effort a success for both the dogs and their humans.
I am fortunate to be associated with DVGRR as a volunteer, donor and most of all as an adopter. My three amazing rescues all came from DVGRR. Carlee a former puppy mill breeder was lucky to have been rescued young. She spent time in Project Home Life, a program developed by DVGRR to help puppymill and hoarding dogs adapt to life in a house. Carlee was ~3 when she came home, she is now getting close to celebrating her 13th birthday. Still a lucky girl and now a mentor to her brothers. Dudley was surrendered to the rescue by a breeder that didn’t want to pay for a surgery to save his life. Born with his abdominal organs in his chest cavity, DVGRR had the surgery and I brought home a happy, normal 4 month old mini Goldendoodle that has titles is several sports. Duddy is now 9 and still bringing home ribbons and new titles. Not to be out done by big (little) brother is Trooper. He was also surrendered to DVGRR by a farmer that didn’t want yo pay for a leg amputation due to a severe break. DVGRR once again stepped in, had the surgery done and I brought home a perfectly happy, normal golden puppy who just happens to be a tripod. Trooper was 7 weeks at the time of the surgery and has no trouble getting around. Following in Duddys footsteps, he has numerous titles and ribbons and enjoys swimming too. I can’t thank or express my appreciation to the staff and volunteers at DVGRR for the tremendous care and love they give these dogs. Truly an organization and staff devoted to saving “man/woman’s best friend”.
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I have been a proud supporter, volunteer and adopter for a number of years. DVGRR has grown and continues to be innovative in the care and enrichment of the dogs in its care. My 3 are a testament to their high standards and excellent care of the dogs that are lucky enough to find there way to Golden Gateway. They truly deserve to be counted as one of the best nonprofit organizations in the country.
I adopted my Golden, Riptide, from DVGRR. What an incredible organization! Everyone at DVGRR, from the staff to the volunteers, was completely focused on the dogs in their care - not only their physical health, but also their mental health. So many rescues have come from breeders and awful environments and at DVGRR, each dog is treated like the most important creature in the world. The staff is so careful to match the dogs up to people who can provide them with the best possible furrever homes.
I respect and admire the work of DVGRR so much that I continue to be a donor years after I was lucky enough to have Riptide enter the life of my family.
I cannot recommend DVGRR highly enough.
Patti Davis
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They really care! That's the number 1 thing that I can say. They go to the adopters home to make sure is suitable and perform necessary medical procedures and they obviously care for and love the dogs. They try very hard to match the dogs with right people. A worthy organization!!
DVGRR is the best! We have adopted 4 dogs from DVGRR that have made our lives so complete. We adopted Mickey after our Golden Molly passed. Following the passing of Molly's sister Maggie, we adopted Phoebe from DVGRR. Phoebe was a broken Golden breeder from a puppy mill, very timid and was initially very afraid to interact with people. Over months and years we were able to bring Phoebe to understand our love for her and help her live a relatively happy life. We also had Bennie, a Daschshund/Terrier mix from another rescue, who was desperately in love with Phoebe. We lost Mickey in October 2020 and Phoebe in February 2021. We were heartbroken. We have since adopted Harley (senior Chocolate Lab) and Crispen (senior Golden Retriever) from DVGRR. We love all our DVGRR dogs!
DVGRR cares so much about the dogs in their care, providing required medical care and helping the dogs develop appropriate social skills. Heather Hatt leads a team that helps prepare shy (puppy mill survivors) dogs for adoption. I believe it was Heather who created Shy Dog Park, a monthly get together for adopters of these shy dogs. It's a safe place for the dogs as well as a place for adopters to share tips and strategies for helping their shy dog(s) to flourish. What more can I say about this fantastic rescue other than every adopted dog is chipped, fully vaccinated and has has had necessary medical procedures. Adopters leave with detailed records of the adopted dog and a promise from DVGRR to provide ongoing support of the adopting family. Attached DVGRR adoption photos (left to right) . . . Mickey & Phoebe, Harley and Crispen
We don't deserve dogs.
I found my Labrador Lily at DVGRR after my golden retriever Skipper lost his battle with cancer. Lily had a Frankenstein scar across her shoulders from a recent surgery. I met her and Zack Morgan at DVGRR to see about adopting her. We were put in a room together and she walked up to me and put her nose against my nose. Zack Morgan said I could come back when the biopsy results were back from the laboratory. He said she was probably okay but could not guarantee that. I brought her home that day.
She was given the best veterinarian service available and even had a teeth cleaning. DVGRR provided me with honest information about her.
She has been my constant companion and a constant source of amusement and comfort through the various ups and downs of my life. She wakes me up to tell me to go upstairs to bed when I fall asleep watching television.
I am still touched when I think about how well she was taken care of before I adopted her. I was provided with a looseleaf notebook detailing her background and medical history and vaccinations.
I cannot imagine an organization that takes better care of the needs of dogs than DVGRR,
DVGRR and Lily will be forever in my heart.
Our experience at DVGRR far exceeded our expectations right from the start. The staff is 100% committed to the cause and has been so supportive and responsive to us as new owners of an adopted pet. They coached us all along the way and helped us find a new family member. We adopted "Lexi" and she has brought such joy and love in our homes and we can't imagine not having her in our lives. DVGRR is a blessing to us as a family and to countless others, including all the dogs they have rescued and placed over the years. Thank you DVGRR for what you do each and every day!
In the mid to late 90's I was looking for a dog that would fit into my home. I had a cat and a parrot but never had a dog. My vet suggested either a golden retriever or Irish setter. I went with the golden. I contacted DVGRR and got my first golden there. Many have followed since. My husband and I fell in love with this breed and have adopted at least 8 over the years. We try to adopt the ones that need extra attention and boy do we get them. One was totally blind and had never been in a normal environment. That was Jesse. We took him as a foster and after a year knew he was ready for a permanent home under the right conditions. DVGRR asked if we would like to adopt him and we gladly did. He was the best. He was 3 years old when we adopted him and we had him till he was 12. Another adoption was a puppy mill breeder who had some health issues. Callie had lyme disease and was not treated in time to prevent kidney disease. We knew this but brought her home anyway and we did not regret the short time we had her. We currently have another puppy mill breeder who was a challenge for us. She has a very high prey drive but it only took her a few days to know to let the cat and parrot alone. She and the cat are now friends and play together and sometimes sleep together. They are good friends. DVGRR is one of the best dog rescues I have encountered as they really try to match up the dog and family. The Rescue just doesn't shove the dog out the door to the first person who shows an interest. The dog and family must be a good fit. The dogs get good health care at the rescue. The staff is super friendly and they do know their jobs and take excellent care of these displaced dogs. I recommend this rescue for anyone looking for the best match of a dog for their lifestyle. And if you do have a problem with the dog when you bring it home, the rescue does work with you to resolve it.
We have adopted three wonderful dogs from DVGRR. Our most recent is a rescue from Puerto Rico who arrived at DVGRR at age two, as a stray, underweight with heartworm. DVGRR treated his heartworm. He is now, six years later, a healthy, loving family member with a wonderful disposition. He makes dog and human friends everywhere he goes. DVGRR is an amazing rescue. The dogs receive the best medical care available. They are referred to veterinary specialists when needed and completely vetted for health and personality before they are matched with an adopter.
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Since 2004 we have adopted three dogs from DVGRR. It is an amazing rescue group. The dogs receive excellent veterinary care and come to the adopter with COMPLETE vet workups. No surprises. The vetting of the dogs’ temperament and personality are spot on. They have done amazing work with puppy mill survivors, strays from Puerto Rico, dogs from high kill shelters and even dogs rescued from the meat trade in Korea. Their very knowledgeable staff are available after adoption for guidance and counseling if needed.
We were looking for alittle older golden retriever, one that got along with cats especially...a friend and dog trainer referred our daughter to DVGRR , we put in our adoption application ,we learned we were approved. DVGRR has monthly open houses, we attended one and found our girl...I just knew she would fit perfectly, DVGRR also agreed...on July 1 st.we brought Willow home..the rescue is remarkable...they take every measure to see that the dogs get adopted to the right family. We had a wonderful experience and recommend DVGRR to anyone or family looking for a golden....thankyou to the staff there to they see to the dogs well being unbelievable...I could go on and on with postive remarks
The Dagostino family
They are really awesome. We just adopted our second dog from them. They really care about the well being of the animals they have in their rescue and the volunteers are so nice and helpful. Highly recommend DVGRR. Pictures Brett our newest rescue and Fiona who we had rescued 9 years prior, unfortunately she passed last year.
These guys are the best! We adopted our Daisy through them in February 2020. She had been thoroughly vetted, loved on, and had her initial training. The facility where she and the other dogs were housed was incredible. It was where Daisy began to heal after years of mistreatment. DVGRR made certain we (and our other dogs) would be a good match for Daisy, and followed up after we brought her home. Today, Daisy is healthy, happy, and a beloved member of our family. DVGRR is hands down the best rescue we’ve ever worked with!
DVGRR blends robust systems with empathetic, mission-driven people to deliver a service as good or better than any for-profit in this industry that I've come across!
Best organization I’ve ever dealt with. Two years before we ended up adopting I called DVGRR Director of Adoptions, Zack Grant, for advice on adopting a Golden Retriever. We had an unusual home situation involving my special needs daughter. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and he spoke to me several times patiently and attentively. We didn’t end up adopting at that time under the honest recommendation of Zack, who was looking out both for the dogs and my daughter. Two years later, when our family situation changed, I called back. Not only did he remember our conversation, but he gave me MORE good advice; and this time we adopted Goldie, a special needs girl in her own right. She and my daughter (and entire family) ended up being a PERFECT fit, and we adore her! We live far enough away in NJ that we can’t give much of our time, but we donate financially whenever we can to help this organization that so helped us. We love DVGRR!!! Sincerely, the McMaster Family
My family has had the honor of both volunteering at DVGRR as well as adopting from them and experiencing the adoption process. This is hands down the most amazing organization we have ever worked with. From seeing the “behind the scene” operations to going through the adoption process, this organization is professional from square one. It’s an organization that we not only support but actually BELIEVE in and care about. They truly care about and KNOW every single dog and are very careful to place them with the correct family. We were very impressed with how organized they were, providing a detailed binder with every fact and medical info known about the dog. When we adopted our Rosie, they also were careful to make sure that she meshed with the other dogs in our family already. They truly care about their dogs and organization. DVGRR is literally THE BEST in our eyes!!!
Cody was a hard to place puppy mill rescue. He had such severe anxiety that he could not come close to any male workers and accepted help from a very few select female workers from DVGRR. The staff worked with him for years before they thought he was ready to adopt out. As a single female who had other dogs, I was a good match. He came to me with terrible fears of so many things. The staff at DVGRR tirelessly worked with me and supported Cody with countless items, tips and medical support. Their love gave Cody faith in humans for the first time ever. He now loves his canine siblings and his human family. He know and responds to words that even I never dreamed he’d know. Cody has endeared himself to me. He is the sweetest, gentlest, most mellow, most well behaved, and most unique chocolate lab I have ever met. Whether we are going for a walk, eating breakfast or going to sleep at night, I feel like the most fortunate dog mom ever. I am filled with gratitude for all that DVGRR has done for Cody and how they taught me so many things. Everything they do is for the improvement of dogs and their families. I have great respect and admiration for the Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue.
One of the best recommendations I can give for DVGRR came from our veterinarian in Annapolis, MD. She reviewed the health binder that came with each of our four DVGRR dogs and said she had never seen anything so thorough coming from a shelter. We support DVGRR because of the unparalleled medical care and love the dogs receive; the unwavering focus on the welfare of the dogs; the focus on pairing the right dog(s) with the right family; the truly heroic work rescuing breeder dogs; the support and education adopting families receive; the ability to recruit and retain amazing volunteers; and the foresight to plan for future needs; and partnering with shelters in Puerto Rico and around the world. We have adopted two "discarded" puppy mill breeder golden retriever girls (Jaymee and Rosie), a "Coconut Retriever" from Puerto Rico (Coquito), and their mentor dog, Dawson. All special needs dogs, and all so very special to us.
Our dogs are beloved companions and their loss is felt deeply. But adopting another needy dog is one way we have found to heal. Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue (DVGRR) has provided us with that adoptive fur-kid three times. Because we are elderly, we have focused on elderly dogs. First with Bella, an 8 year old golden with abundant skin problems and quirky personality. Her prideful wearing of sunglasses while receiving laser treatment for her skin will always be one of my favorite memories. Then there was Cuddles, a 6 year old "barn" dog who came to us so lacking in confidence that her favorite resting spot was in a corner of our living room under a table with only her nose showing. She is still with us and has left her corner but still won't approach anyone other than her family even when tempted with treats. And then there is Teddy, an 8 year old stray from Puerto Rico whom we have had for 2 months. His barking for attention and food was so pervasive we would often have to take him outside so we could eat in peace. He still wants to bark but it comes out as a whine because he has learned there is a reward at the end if he is quiet.
These experiences, sometime exhausting but so rewarding, would not have been possible without DVGRR. This organization cares....and it shows in the phenomenal job they do of ensuring they are aware of every dog's medical and behavioral needs. This information allowed us to be confident that we were adopting a dog that we could handle in terms of both financial support and behavioral training. We cannot thank DVGRR enough!
We have had two wonderful experiences with DVGRR!! Daisy was our first dog rescued from DVGRR and there was no other dog as brave, loving and fun! She was a breeder dog, and she wasn’t very comfortable in our home when we got her. But, soon Daisy was at ease with steps, the TV and all the other new experiences. During that transition period, we received a lot of help from DVGRR volunteers. Eventually, Daisy became completely blind, but that never stopped her from being adventurous! We kept in touch with DVGRR for advice on a lot of issues we had with Daisy, and they were always there for us. After years with Daisy, she peacefully passed away. It took us a few years to want to start looking for another rescue.
Since our dogs had always been Goldens, we were on DVGRR list to adopt. Goldens came and went on our computer screens and then when we least expected it, Dezel appeared in a DVGRR video. Dezel’s owner passed away, and Dezel didn’t seem to fit in with the daughter’s dogs, so she took him to DVGRR. As petite as Daisy was, Dezel was enormous! This fun loving, huge, smart half Golden/half Bernese Mt Dog was just what we needed. DVGRR let us foster Dezel first to make sure he was a good fit. Once again, we had a lot of questions for DVGRR and they again were patient and offered lots of good ideas.
When you get a dog from DVGRR, you return home with not only a dog, a collar, leash, the dog food they have used and a book with the dog’s history, both medical and personal story which is a great help! We celebrated Dezel’s 12th birthday this past summer with the 6 grandkids and their parents. Dezel has brought us and everyone he meets lots of love.
We are so grateful for DVGRR to all they have done to match us with our forever dogs. They are always there to answer our sometimes ridiculous questions and not once have they laughed at those questions! We thank them for all the do!! We received a notebook full of not only the dogs’ personal history, but all the intake information while the dog was at DVGRR. DVGRR is definitely a fantastic place to get a dog.
We have donated to, worked with, and rescued a number of dogs over the years. This is a dedicated hard working compassionate group of folks that are only concerned with helping dogs. Everyone gives and only takes the warm feeling of love for a mutual effort.
Having been impressed with DVGRR as adopters six years ago, our admiration for their work has continued to grow in reading about ongoing staff development in progressive canine behavioral practices, improvements to the rescue's facilities, deeply dedicated intake and remediation endeavors, and more. If only all rescued dogs could find themselves the beneficiaries of such extensive resources.
I have adopted two rescue dogs from DVGRR, one of whom was a female puppy mill breeder dog. DVGRR was extremely helpful in ensuring I knew what to expect and how to best help this dog acclimate to a ‘normal’ environment.
DVGRR has been supporting goldens, and golden hearted dogs, for decades. We first adopted from them in the late 1990's and we were matched with our first golden, Beau. It's important to note that 'we were matched'. Not all shelters and rescues take into account the personality of the dog, and the lifestyle and personality of the family adopting. This is one of the main reasons why I always recommend them to friends and family looking to adopt.
Our current rescue, David, is the seventh golden we have been lucky enough to have as a member of our family. We couldn't be happier that David, and so many others, have been rescued by DVGRR!
We wanted to adopt an older dog to match the age of the dog we would have left when our senior dog passed. My husband chose Brody #4 based on his picture and said “that’s my boy”. When we met Brody, he only had eyes for my husband. We brought him home and he gradually trusted us, especially me ( since I was not my husband lol) and fit so well with our family. What a sweet boy. Sadly he passed a year ago, but we were able to give him 5 happy years. Still miss him so much! Everyone at DVGRR were amazing! If they were closer I’d volunteer there weekly. I was so impressed with their love for the dogs, the cleanliness of the facility and how they were so careful with the dogs.
DVGRR rescued a female Golden Retriever from 7 years of breeding last year. They carefully matched me and my elder dog with our new family member with support and education. She needed a special understanding of her past to help her to have a future. The care and expenses by the Rescue are all for the welfare of the dog. The facilities are clean and the staff makes visitors feel at home. The adoption process is transparent and seamless. I am blessed so far with 1 year giving and getting love from my Golden. I love DVGRR and think they are the best.
Wonderful organization that saves and rehabilitates puppy mill dogs and those with special needs. We have adopted two dogs through DVGRR and our family has also adopted. Both our pups are fantastic, loving dogs, and we couldn’t be happier. DVGRR puts their heart and soul into rescue.
DVGRR does a WONDERFUL job of matching the dogs available for adoption with their new families.
They keep you informed every step of the way and provide support for new owners.
Simply said, The Best!
great resource before and after adoption. Dedicated staff. Can't say enough good things about them and their entire operation. I wish we could adopt more goldens/labs.
Having adopted 2 golden rescues from DVGRR, I whole heartedly endorse DVGRR as a true great nonprofit . Our first rescue, Rescue, was called by a local vet when the original owner would not pay for the operation to fix her a damaged hip. DVGRR paid the fee for the operation and sheltered the pup who was 6 months old while they sought a suitable adopter. We received the call and the rest is history, Roxy, now is over 11 and living a life of a princess in her forever home.
Last year we heard of a 1 year old Golden pup that had been turned in because she was a bit snippy and storm phobic. We had to wait several weeks to meet Maddie as DVGRR had to vaccinate and spay her. DVGRR requires that all adoptees be matched to the parents and any of the other furry friends in the house. Roxy met Maddie on 10/8/20, and she came home to her forever home later that day. Our vet has repeatedly mentioned that the records and care given to their rescues is very impressive.
Maddie exhibited none of the behaviors the previous owners indicated. A sweet lovable dog that sleeps on our couches and spends all her time either on my lap or with my wife.
It is DVGRR's goal to provide wonderful forever homes for Golden's. Labs, and other Golden like animals. With more than 5990 adoptions completed DVGRR is truly a great NONPROFIT!
I’ve adopted dogs as well as volunteering at DVGRR and hold them in very high esteem.
I’ve also been a contributor for 15 years
We adopted a 3 month old Golden Doodle and couldn’t be happier with him or our experience with everyone at DVGRR. The Monthly Open house gave us an opportunity to see the entire DVGRR campus and we were impressed with every aspect. We were pre-approved when we attended the Open House and all volunteers and staff were upfront about each dogs’ health and behavioral issues to insure we received the best dog for us.
They have 3 ring binder Profile books for each dog which gives prospective owners helpful background for each dog, and when you adopt you keep the book for your own records
Multiple requests for various dogs speaks well of the number of people who put their trust in DVGRR. Excellent care of all dogs, with plenty of personalized attention. Our former vet in NJ and our current vet in MD not only speak highly of DVGRR but have adopted from there.
Screening of applicants unexpectedly thorough and response time is excellent.
We had applied to three rescue organizations at the same time; never heard from one, and we’d already adopted from DVGRR before hearing from the other.
Our family was looking for a good prospect to become a service dog (and beloved family member as well). We had been approved to adopt and I kept checking the profile of new rescues coming into DVGRR. I saw one and when I called to explain what we were looking for, I was told there was a littler of goldendoodle puppies and maybe it would be better to start with a puppy to train. We came in and met the litter and we found our perfect match. We adopted Ace and we absolutely love him. He’s been an amazing puppy, is training well, and our experience with the adoption process was great and everyone was very helpful. Great care and efforts are made by DGVRR to match dogs with their perfect families. I would 100% adopt in the future through them again.
When we lost our first rescue it felt like a hole in our hearts. A friend suggested Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue. We filled out the application and eventually were contacted about an interview. The representative came and was very friendly and sat with my wife and I and our children. Eventually we went up for a visit and the whole ride there we felt like kids at Christmas time. We eventually met Pretzel and here we are 6 years later and have not looked back once. He is an essential part of our family and we cannot thank DVGRR enough. We constantly get updates about fundraisers and events for us and for him to go back and visit with other Goldens. Thank you so much!!!!!!!!!
I have been a part of DVGRR for going on 8 years. It is an absolute pleasure being a part of this organization and all that goes along with it! To many more !!
We have been golden retriever lovers for about 30 years. This is a great organization because they take in many dogs and place them in vetted loving forever homes.
When we heard about DVGRR in the summer of 2017, we decided to add another dog to our pack, having recently lost our beagle to cancer. With two other dogs in our home, we needed our new addition to be a good match for our dogs and our kids. We attended at open house at DVGRR and loved being able to walk around to interact with all the dogs and volunteers. We were disappointed when we were not immediately matched with a dog, but knew waiting would be worth it. A few weeks later, a dog that appeared to be a small Golden retriever named Abby appeared on the website. Abby (who turned out to have no Golden retriever in her, but we didn't care!) was a recent arrival at DVGRR from Puerto Rico. I knew this was our dog. Within a few days, we were at DVGRR meeting her, then returning with our dogs to ensure a good fit. She is the softest, sweetest, snuggliest dog and has been a great fit for our family! The following year, we lost our yellow lab from another rescue to cancer and decided to return to DVGRR to find a new family member. At the monthly meet and greet, we fell in love with Cocoa who is classified as a "supermutt", Again, we struck gold with a DVGRR dog. Cocoa, direct from Puerto Rico, is the most friendly and laid back dog we could have imagined. In December 2019, she earned her therapy dog certification and enjoys spending time with everyone she meets! I have also enjoyed my time as a volunteer at DVGRR, starting as a dog walker, then helping with monthly open houses and working with the Project Home Life program. The staff have been fabulous to work with, both as a client and as a volunteer. We send anyone looking to rescue a dog to DVGRR!
In 1998 I was searching for a dog, found a pull tab at my Vets office and called the number. I was sent an application and thought I wouldn't qualify based on the vetting process. Very thorough! A month or so later I got a call from them that they had a dog for me. Four dogs later, I never had a bad experience, or a dog who wasn't perfectly suited to me or my lifestyle.
Their dedication to these animals is incredible, and they ensure that each dog has a perfect home.
I have had 3 dogs from DVGRR and they are the best. They help make sure the matches made between people and dogs are wonderful and they offer follow up support and advice.
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Our experiences with DVGRR, Inc. have been awesome! Six golden retrievers have found their way into our home and hearts over many years, and this nonprofit has always ensured that matches between dogs and "forever homes" are good ones! We are also impressed by the vision the organization's leaders have, and the hard work and resiliency shown by staff members at the Rescue. This organization deserves, without question, to be on your radar!
Michael & Ann Deibert
Alleghenyville, PA
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I've served as a long-time volunteer, have fostered Golden retrievers, and have adopted Golden retrievers through Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue, Inc. I could not imagine how our lives would be without this wonderful organization. Their mission, their placement of wonderful pets, and their attention to detail. set them apart from other non-profits. The family members we've adopted from DVGRR have been wonderful, and have enriched our lives immensely. This organization deserves its top rating for all it has done for both helpless animals and the people who have adopted them.
I have adopted 5 golden's from DVGRR and I'm sure that there will be more in my future. They are an amazing organization to work with and just super people. I highly recommend DVGRR and have had friends and family that have also adopted through their program. They do wonderful work preparing the pups (and new families) for adoption and take the time to secure the best possible match. Once the adoption process is complete the DVGRR team does follow up and offers support to every adopter and welcomes the pups back for various events and an annual reunion. Just love DVGRR!!!
DVGRR is a wonderful organization. We have adopted two dogs from them and couldn't have asked for a better experience. They truly care for their mission and do everything they can on behalf of the dogs. Their fundraising events are top notch with all the volunteers being involved in one way or another. It's a joy to meet everyone at the events. They make you feel part of the DVGRR family no matter what role (big or small) you may have played in their mission. DVGRR is number one in our book!
DVGRR is a great organization with professional staff who always have the dogs best interest in mind. Over the past few years we have brought many dogs into our home through DVGRR and have received the support and guidance we needed. We can't say enough good things about DVGRR. We're so happy to have adopted through the rescue and plan to continue that. Cliff T.
DVGRR is a wonderful place! We have adopted Ben, Nova, Sam and now Sapphire from them and have always been very happy with DVGRR.
I've adopted 3 dogs from DVGRR over the years and they are the best. The amount of info they provide and the amount of vet care that goes into each dog is amazing. They go above and beyond by offering follow-up phone consults.
I lost my dog, my best friend and thought I would never fine a replacement. Not until I went to DVGRR any met Higgins. He his my best boy. I love him so.
We began supporting DVGRR as donors over 15 years ago as we were so impressed with the rescue work they were doing. We've since adopted four DVGRR dogs and couldn't be happier with both our great goldens, but also the care, instruction and support provided by DVGRR.
As an adopter and supporter since 1998, I continue to be impressed with the staff and volunteers at DVGRR. Although many things have changed over the years (all for the better) the one thing that remains constant is their dedication to doing the right things for the dogs. If you are looking to adopt a dog, DVGRR is one of the very best. I highly recommend them.
I adopted Shiloh in 2008 and then Banning and Grace in 2010 from DVGRR. From the first time I meet the wonderful staff and volunteers I knew that the care and love that they give the dogs in their care is second to none. Shiloh was only with me for 15 months before cancer took her from me. Grace was 71/2 years old when she chose me as her human and filled my life with joy for 51/2 years before she joined Shiloh at the Rainbow Bridge. DVGRR has a program to help puppy mill dogs transition from mill life to a home. Both Grace and Shiloh were puppy mill breeder Goldens and were part of this program. Everything and every one at DVGRR is about the well being of the dogs. The pictures are Shiloh, Banning and Grace.
I've been a supporter of Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue long before I adopted Daisy from them in April of 2013!! This rescue worked together with a rescue in Arkansas that was dealing with ... as I've been told.. " the worst case of neglect and hoarding we've ever experienced!" Daisy was one of 11 Golden Retrievers they saved!!( there was 30+ animals rescued) DVGRR named this group " The Arkansas 11".
The 11 were transported from Arkansas and arrived at DVGRR in February 2013.The way they worked together to get these dogs safely to PA and then be eagerly waiting for their arrival to begin to " heal" them is beyond amazing work!!! Loving them began immediately!! These 11 were not going to be " perfect" Goldens........ the horrible situation they were rescued from definitely had them needing physical as well as emotional rehabilitation.
This very well may be the point that Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue went from being so inspiring to me ... to being " Hero's"!
It's difficult to put down in words the amazing ....life changing work that each and every person working for this rescue does! They will do whatever is necessary for ALL the dogs in their care 24/7!!
They now have on- site Veterinary care as well as a separate building next door... a sanctuary for senior and puppy mill dogs..... that receive the special care needed!!
It has been 3 years this month since we adopted Daisy... and because of the abuse and lack of positive socialization for her first year and a half....... she was a work in progress........ she's made me so proud of how far she's come!! I'm so thankful to DVGRR for saving her and letting us adopt her and give her a wonderful life!!
Anyone looking to rescue , please consider adopting from Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue!! They are awesome!!
A year and a half ago, my husband and I decided we were ready for a new responsibility in our lives - a dog! Rather than shopping at a pet store or breeder, we also wanted to help a dog in need. Having grown up with Goldens, I was very excited to learn about DVGRR.
After speaking with them, we learned that none of their Goldens would have been good city dogs. I was heartbroken! But, they had a great lab if we were interested. DVGRR takes the time to really understand what is best for the owner, but more importantly, the dogs. While some organizations simply give off dogs to the first person in the door, DVGRR really tries to find the best "forever home" possible.
We couldn't be happier with our dog, Bailey. He is amazing; so well trained, so lovable. We thank DVGRR every day for bringing him to our lives!
We adopted Buddy in April of 2011 as our Female Golden, Honey was getting to be a Senior Girl, 8 yrs old at the time. She was the Queen of the house for 3 years since we lost our Male Golden, Albert and thought it was time she had another companion
Buddy was only a year old and even though he had some back problems when we adopted him, he was quite a handful for Honey. It was funny seeing him do all the things she did to our Albert when we got her at 1 yrs old, although we don't think she agreed with us. In any event, Buddy stuck to Honey like glue, always wanting to play and when he wasn't playing, he would lay as close as he could and always have a paw or something touching Honey.
We thought we would have several years of the two of them together and Buddy would mature to an adult dog before the time would come that we would lose our Sweet Honey, however, that was not the case. Honey was diagnosed with Canine Lymphoma in June of 2012 at only 9 yrs old.
We struggled with the treatment options and decided against Chemo for Honey. It was a very personal decision based on Honey's personality and what we felt she would want if she could speak. The prognosis was only 2 months. Honey was having none of that, she thrived and had a fully and happy almost 6 months before she lost her battle with the disease.
I knew that Buddy would need another companion, but I thought we would wait until the Spring to look for a brother or sister for him. I soon realized that Buddy didn't want to wait that long as he was lost without his older Sister and we were as well. Having just gotten back to enjoying two Golden's in the house, it was hard to go back to just one.
We decided to look again a few weeks after Honey passed. That's when we saw Nicky (a.k.a. Snickers #5) on the DVGRR website. I read through his bio and saw at the end that he was blind. I honestly didn't hesitate for one second after reading that info and knew people that had blind dogs and how well they adjusted. When I went further and read his behavior evaluation and saw that his intake date was November 28, 2012, the same exact date we lost our Sweet Honey, I knew that it was meant to be. My husband had some concerns but we decided we would bring Buddy up to meet him and see how they got along.
Needless to say the Boys got along great and Nicky is even more playful then his big brother Buddy. We fell in love with him and took him home with us on Jan 5, 2013. Nicky rode all the way home on my lap. I think he was almost as happy as we were.
We definitely were concerned about him hurting himself or getting into something he shouldn't, but he proved us wrong. We put up gates on our front and back stairs so he couldn't get up them, but after showing him the first floor while on his leash, we gave him full access. He learned the layout within a day ! We also put cat bells on Buddy's collar to make sure Nicky knew where he was and could follow him around. We took Nicky out in our yard on his leash at first as we were concerned he could hurt himself. He was a very well behaved boy and always knew where to go to take care of his business.
Gradually we began letting go of the leash and eventually let him go out without it all, however one of us was always with him when he went outside. (our yard is completely fenced in of course) Very shortly, Nicky got the full layout of the yard and LOVES going outside either by himself (we are always watching though) or with his Big Brother.
Words can not express the joy our little Nicky has brought to our household, he is such a loving and affectionate little guy. He is always happy and ready to play, romp or wrestle with Buddy, or to sit in one of our laps and sleep. He even has a favorite chair and races my husband to the living room to get in it before he does. While we would both love it if Nicky could see, he is such a happy boy, I don't think it matters to him one bit. It definitely doesn't matter to us. He is perfect just the way he is.
We are thankful to DVGRR for bringing Buddy & Nicky into our lives and hearts. They are the most well run organization I have had the pleasure of dealing with, clean & professional are not enough to describe them and the care and love they give each and every dog is above and beyond.
Sincerely,
Annamarie & Victor Trippodi
Bloomfield, NJ
My husband and I had unexpectedly lost our Golden Retriever in April of 2015. She was a valued member of our family for 13 years. Somehow our lives and house lacked a special presence that made our home a special place for all. One Friday night in August my husband came home from work with an idea. He thought we could fill out the forms on line to adopt a dog from the DVGRR . We started the process and never looked back. The Rescue was amazing with the information they had on each of their dogs that was available for adoption. Their whole process of adopting a dog was amazing and not only was the dog right for us, we had to be right for the dog. We found our perfect dog at a Meet and Greet sponsored by the DVGRR and he has been with us since September. DVGRR puts their dogs best interest ,in every way ,first and the care of each dog is phenomenal. This is an organization made up of caring and honest people that will do whatever it takes for the dogs in their care. We have never been happier or more impressed with a nonprofit organization.
Delware Valley Golden Retreiver Rescue is a truly amazing place. We adopted our four year old dog in 2009, she was one of the "puppy mill breeder" dogs. Although she had many quirks and needed a lot of patience and love, without the DVGRR and their belief in these dogs, she wouldn't be here today. The diligent process they put adopters thru worked wonders in our case. Lily joined our family of goldens and as a rescue and made a trio. She now runs, plays and acts like the other goldens in our home. I had never adopted a rescue before, and cannot say how delighted we were that we did. The time and effort they put into the dogs to make them adoptable is a true labor of love. They are one of the only rehab programs with their own facility for golden retreivers that I am aware of. Too all golden lovers and dog lovers everywhere, they deserve our full support, so they can continue their good work.
We adopted our little girl in July of 2006, and would not hesitate to adopt from DVGRR again. They did a great job of matching us with our new family member, she fit right in from day one. We credit her with saving our older boy who was only 5 at the time and was grieving for his "sister" who we lost suddenly to cancer, and his new "sister" didn't give up, she just kept after him until he finally fell for her too! She has been a great asset to our family and we continue to support the wonderful shelter and the great people who do such a terrific job taking care of these goldens and finding them new homes.
I adopted 2 dogs from Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Club. Both dogs have become assets to our household. The Rescue does a great job matching dog to family. The staff is well versed in helping their "guests" become suited to be adopted into their forever homes. They really care about the dogs. I strongly recommend people who would like to have a Golden to contact Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue.