r/rescuedogs • • Sep 17 '26

MOD Clarification: Rule #9 - Safety and Bite History

0 Upvotes

We've noticed some confusion regarding Rule #9: Safety and Bite History, specifically what constitutes as a bite history that would not be allowed to post here.

Rule #9 applies only when a dog has a known history of biting a person that resulted in the bite breaking or puncturing the person's skin.

A dog does not violate Rule #9 simply because they:

  • Have a history of mouthing or nipping
  • Have put their mouth on a person without breaking skin
  • Have made contact with someone's skin without causing a wound
  • Have snapped or air-snapped without making contact
  • Have bitten another animal
  • Have displayed fear, reactivity, resource guarding, or other behavioral concerns without a human bite that broke skin

For example; a documented incident in which a dog nipped someone's hand but did not break the skin does not, by itself, make the dog ineligible for a rehoming or networking post under Rule #9.

Conversely, a documented incident in which a dog bit a person and punctured their skin does fall under Rule #9, regardless of the breed of the dog or the circumstances surrounding the incident.

This rule stands regardless of the situation the dog was in when it bit.

Please do not report a post under Rule #9 solely because a dog has bitten another animal or bitten a human without breaking skin. If a post contains rehoming a dog that has bitten a person and broke the skin, those can be reported.


r/rescuedogs • • Aug 19 '26

MOD Community Update & Recent Changes

4 Upvotes

Hi everyone! The mod team has been hard at work on cleaning up and updating r/rescuedogs. The goal is to make the subreddit easier to use, easier to moderate consistently, and (most importantly) a better place for people working with rescued dogs.

We've made quite a few changes recently, so here's a quick overview.

📋 Rules & Flair

We've rewritten and streamlined the subreddit rules to make them clearer and easier to follow. Please review them again before posting/commenting.

Some of the biggest changes include:

  • Be Civil now explicitly covers harassment and demeaning comments directed at both users and animals.
  • Stay On Topic now covers both off-topic posts and discussions that derail otherwise relevant threads.
  • Adoption/Foster/Rescue networking has been consolidated into a clearer format.
  • Donation and fundraising requirements have been updated, simplified, and clarified as well as added a disclaimer.
  • Pledge rules have been updated to make the process clearer.
  • No Spam has been updated to cover a broader range of abuse.
  • No Breed-Based Hate or Dog-Directed Harassment has been clarified.
  • Good-faith discussion about breeds and related topics is allowed, but inflammatory comments and attacks on breeds or individual dogs are not.
  • Safety & Bite History now focuses on dogs with a documented history of biting a person that drew blood, made more consistently enforcible, and added a disclaimer.
  • Outdated and redundant rules have been removed.

We've also cleaned up the post flairs and consolidated several categories to make choosing the appropriate flair easier, as well as adding an 'Outcome' flair for adoption posts that have had outcomes.

🤖 Automod & Moderation

  • We've cleaned up the Automod configuration and removed a number of outdated or unnecessary rules and automated messages.
  • The welcome message has also been simplified. New users are now directed to review the rules and report rule-breaking content rather than engaging with it.
  • We've also standardized our saved responses for removals, bans, and common modmail questions so that moderation decisions can be communicated more consistently.

🐕 Networking & Euthanasia Posts

  • We've updated the formatting requirements for adoption/foster/rescue pull, and euthanasia/deadline posts.
    • The goal is to make these posts easier for people to find and understand while keeping the process as simple as possible for the people doing the actual networking.
  • We've added an Outcome flair so that posts can be updated by OP when we know what happened to an animal.
  • Comments are now set to display oldest first, which should make it easier to follow updates on networking and urgent posts. Votes are also hidden for the first 60 minutes.

💰 Donations & Pledges

  • We've clarified the requirements for donation requests and added a disclaimer that verification is not a guarantee or endorsement and that users are responsible for doing their own due diligence before donating.
  • A new form has been created to streamline donation plea requests.
  • We've also added saved modmail responses to help people who want to make donation requests understand the verification process.

🔗 Community Resources

  • We've updated the sidebar and added links to other communities and resources that may be useful for adoption, fostering, pet help, lost animals, and other situations that don't fit within r/rescuedogs.
  • We've also added the ability to sort posts by post flair, so users can tailor what they want to see.

💬 Community Feedback

  • We're also reaching out to established members of the community, including people who have regularly used r/rescuedogs for rescue networking, to hear what has and hasn't been working.
  • We know that changes to a community are much more useful when they're informed by the people who actually use it, so if there's something you think we should know about, please feel free to send us a modmail.

This is an ongoing process. We don't expect to get everything perfect immediately, but we're committed to making r/rescuedogs a useful, welcoming place for people trying to help dogs in need.

Thank you to everyone who has stuck around, contributed, reported problems, networked dogs, fostered, adopted, or otherwise helped make this community what it is.

~ The r/rescuedogs Mod Team


r/rescuedogs • • 23h ago

Rescue Stories Update: after 7 long days, she’s officially mine.

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3.7k Upvotes

She’s officially mine!! (Pictured with my uncle)

Previous post, I found her at my job. She was chipped. I had to wait six days to see if she’d be claimed by an owner. No one claimed her. She’s officially part of my family. Thank you ALL for your advice!!!! ❤️❤️


r/rescuedogs • • 2h ago

Rescue Stories My beautiful rescue Heidi, when she came to me she was scared of everything, even things like walking over a bridge would make her shake with fear but over the years she’s became much more confident. Proud of my Heidi baby 💗

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54 Upvotes

r/rescuedogs • • 4h ago

Discussion Vote for Pinto Bean to be Top Pet!

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14 Upvotes

Pinto Bean becoming top pet benefits her and the amazing rescue she was adopted from! Just keep Rescuing cats and canines!


r/rescuedogs • • 6h ago

CW: Euthanasia There are currently 6 dogs on the San Antonio TX ACS Euthanasia List that need a Rescue/Foster/Adopter by 4:30 PM CT on 10/18. There are currently 9 dogs that need Placement by 10/20. The ACS is having an Adoption Event, Dogtober Fest, this weekend

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19 Upvotes

r/rescuedogs • • 2h ago

Donations/Supplies Plea Meet Bri, a Little Chihuahua Who Deserves a Better Life ❤️ - Diagnosed w/ Heartworm, UTI, Babesia, and ehrlichia (blood parasites)💔 Please Help HER🤍🐾

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7 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

Bri's previous owner recently retired and could no longer care for some of her dogs. He initially wanted to surrender her two Beagles to one of our partner shelters.

However, when I saw a video of the dogs, I noticed a little Chihuahua inside a tiny cage. 💔 Bri was not originally one of the dogs being put up for adoption, but seeing her in such a small cage broke my heart.

I immediately asked if we could take her instead, and I agreed that our foundation would take full responsibility for her care.

Yesterday, we noticed that Bri's urine was unusually dark and appeared to contain blood, so we immediately brought her to the veterinary clinic.

Sadly, Bri was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection (UTI), heartworm disease, Babesia, and Ehrlichia. 💔

To be honest, I feel angry and heartbroken. From what I saw, I cannot help but feel that Bri has experienced neglect. She was kept in a cage outside the house, and we have no idea how long she may have been suffering from these illnesses without receiving the medical attention she needed.

The veterinarian also advised that if her symptoms persist, she may require further cardiac assessment.

It breaks my heart to think about how much this tiny girl has already endured. She deserves so much better than spending her life confined in a small cage while silently suffering.

Our foundation has committed to giving Bri the veterinary care, treatment, and love she deserves. ❤️

As a small registered nonprofit caring for rescued animals in the Philippines, taking on another medically complicated case is challenging, but I simply could not turn my back on her.

I am humbly asking for your kindness and support as we help Bri through her treatment and recovery. Even sharing her story, sending words of encouragement, or helping us reach more compassionate animal lovers would mean so much to us.

Bri may be tiny, but her life matters just as much as any other. 🥹❤️

Thank you for being part of her journey.

To help Bri;

https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/donation-form/donate-to-change-lives-12917

Pypl:voicelessnomoreph

Sincerely,

Magdalene “Dindi” Gensaya
Founder
Voiceless No More: Philippines Stray Animals Foundation
Non Profit Corp. 1785254-1


r/rescuedogs • • 21h ago

Adoption/Foster Plea Sweet puppy Nina needs to be rescued (#A5805894) – 2-Month-Old Female Belgian Malinois – Gardena, CA, Carson Animal Care Center-out-of-state fostering/adopting is possible!

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191 Upvotes

r/rescuedogs • • 17h ago

Adoption/Foster Plea 🎃🦇MEET PUNKY A662574! Adorable 1 y/o 28lb Carolina Dog/Terrier mix w/ the cutest bat ears! Happy, sweet, affectionate, Dog-Friendly/Co-Kenneled. Urgently Seeking loving foster/forever home! 612 Canino Rd. Houston, TX (Adoptable Out of State & Canada)

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77 Upvotes

r/rescuedogs • • 39m ago

Rants Impromptu Bath Day

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• Upvotes

r/rescuedogs • • 12h ago

Rescue Stories she was dumped near the lake with severe injuries, here is avrora today

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20 Upvotes

someone beat this small pup and tossed her right into the trash. her name is Aurora. she dragged her body near the river bank and cried out from pure agony. people walked by. no one stepped in.

a kind person finally intervened and we transported her from ossetia straight to moscow. her spine was badly hurt. the clinic team worked night shifts to stabilize her vitals. she will always walk with a wobble. she is special needs now, but the constant pain is gone. today she runs on green grass and lives with an adopter who loves her deeply.

i work with dayonepaws. we handle severe abuse cases like this every month, and the clinical costs are brutal. if anyone wants to support the dayonepaws rehabilitation cases or just see more medical updates, all our info is pinned on my profile. every bit of support helps us pick up the next broken pup off the street.


r/rescuedogs • • 32m ago

Advice Need help and advice in rescuing dog from Nevada to Canada BC

• Upvotes

Hello!

I am in the process of working through rescuing/adopting a dog from Nevada.

I learned about this dog personally, shes older senior and has lots of issues. Currently not potty trained, destructive, and is in a family with small babies and has nipped at mom.

This dog needs to be rehomed, and being surrendered to a pound will likely result in euthanasia.

I am looking for logistic resources to get the dog to Canada. How do I even get the dog to me? Flights seem crazy expensive, I dont feel comfortable driving down to the states.

Thank you for any and all help, information etc!


r/rescuedogs • • 6h ago

Adoption/Foster Plea Foster dog Lennard is looking for his forever home! (Brooklyn, NY)

6 Upvotes

Adopt Lennard! Sweet Lennard was found running down a busy street in Brooklyn and brought to the city shelter where he eventually was placed on the euthanasia list. We started fostering him in April through Miracle Lane Farm and Sanctuary, which is based in Maine. He has done so well in foster care and has blossomed into a confident, affectionate, well-behaved boy who is ready to be adopted! Check out his journey at https://www.instagram.com/lendogbk/

Name: Lennard (aka Lenny)
ID: 6538
Breed: Mixed breed
Age: 2 years old
Sex: Male
Location: Foster home in Brooklyn, NY
Good with other pets?: He could do well with another large-medium size dog. No small pets.
Good with kids?: Adult only home (or older kids, 12+)

Shelter & Contact Information:
Rescue: Miracle Lane Farm and Sanctuary
Phone: (207) 480-9849
Email: [miraclelanefarmnsanctuary@outlook.com](mailto:miraclelanefarmnsanctuary@outlook.com)
Adoption page: https://shorturl.at/7wmta


r/rescuedogs • • 3h ago

Adoption/Foster Plea Help this guy find a home? Currently in Ranchos Palos Verde, CA

3 Upvotes

r/rescuedogs • • 5h ago

Rescue Stories Furr babys bring so much joy and healing

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4 Upvotes

r/rescuedogs • • 4h ago

Discussion Finally failed at my job and I’m ok with it.

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3 Upvotes

r/rescuedogs • • 1d ago

CW: Euthanasia 10/19 Meet JAZZLYN A662210! Adorable 3 y/o Husky mix (HW-) Dog-Friendly, happy, affectionate & loves laps, hugs & kisses, gentle, rarely barks. Urgently Seeking loving foster/forever home! 612 Canino Rd. Houston, TX (Adoptable Out of State & Canada)

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165 Upvotes

r/rescuedogs • • 6m ago

Advice 10mo Morkie: Chente

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• Upvotes

Hi all! We adopted an 10-month-old puppy mill rescue Monday night, knowing he’d be anxious around people. This is my first rescue, so I’m looking for advice or similar experiences!
He was initially hiding from us but has slowly started approaching us, cuddling, and even playing with our cattle dog, Mocha. We’ve been working on crate training and potty training without punishment. His crate has become his safe space, but he struggles with separation anxiety. Even leaving for 20 minutes results in crying and pooping in his crate or playpen.
Thursday, he became more anxious and only ate half his food. Friday, he ate breakfast but refused dinner. Despite this, his energy, water intake, and potty habits were normal.
Today, I bought Hill’s Science Diet thinking he might dislike his current food. Before even trying it, he vomited after we got home. He slept for an hour afterward, then drank water, peed, and had a soft brown poop. His gums are pink, stomach isn’t hard or bloated, and he’s back to playing, cuddling, and acting normal.
We have a vet appointment Monday, but I’m prepared to take him to urgent care if he vomits again or shows concerning symptoms.
Has anyone experienced appetite changes or vomiting with a newly adopted puppy mill rescue? Could stress and adjusting to a completely new environment contribute to this? Is there a certain brand of food that’ll make his transition easier?


r/rescuedogs • • 19h ago

CW: Euthanasia Scared at the shelter, HW-, 2 year-old Kelly is on the euthanasia list Saturday, 10/17 at BARC, Houston, TX. This otherwise healthy girl can be adopted to US or Canada. Get in touch if you can help

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30 Upvotes

r/rescuedogs • • 16h ago

CW: Euthanasia Hibiscus A59669 & Mango A59668 Shepherd Mix Siblings San Bernardino City Animal Shelter Deadline 10/17 At 2pm PDT Adopter, Rescue, & Pledges Needed Immediately! Watch Their Video in the Message!

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20 Upvotes

r/rescuedogs • • 15h ago

Rescue Stories Mr. Reeves - My Black Grey

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13 Upvotes

Meet Mr. Reeves, our rescue greyhound


r/rescuedogs • • 1d ago

CW: Euthanasia 10-year-old, HW- Jimmy is on the euthanasia list Saturday, 10/17 @ 1 pm CT. Another senior in urgent need of help at BARC. Please get in touch if you can adopt Jimmy in the US/Canada. BARC Houston, A2101811. Please share!

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81 Upvotes

r/rescuedogs • • 1d ago

CW: Euthanasia 10/19 Urgent! Handsome CLOVE A661655 is a 2 y/o Carmel Lab/Pittie mix (HW-) calm & quiet, very affectionate & loving, enjoys time in play yard, Dog-Friendly! Urgently Seeking loving foster/forever home! 612 Canino Rd. Houston, TX (Adoptable Out of State & Canada)

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115 Upvotes

r/rescuedogs • • 1d ago

Adoption/Foster Plea Beautiful Toodles, such a well behaved girl, friendly, loving, good with other dogs, a pleasure to walk. If you can offer her a home pls DM ~A2092467~ healthy, happy 3yr old staffie Mix girl on euth list for 10/16 @1pm CT barc Houston Texas adopt foster

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155 Upvotes

r/rescuedogs • • 1d ago

Adoption/Foster Plea Senior Corso in Chicago needs home!

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78 Upvotes

Meet our big man Solomon!

Nine years of wisdom, a HUGE body, and the sweetest, gentlest soul. Solomon takes life slowly, and he would really appreciate a family who understands the importance of a good nap.

This handsome gentleman came to us from our wonderful rescue partner in hopes that some fresh eyes would help him find his people. We know they’re out there.

Solomon is quiet, loving, and perfectly content watching the world go by before resting peacefully through whatever happens next. He is house and crate trained. Extensive walks and big adventures? He’ll leave those to the youngsters.

He cannot live with cats. He does well with dogs given slow introductions and tends to prefer female friends.

What Solomon wants is simple. A warm home. A loving family. Somewhere to spend the rest of his life knowing he belongs and that someone is glad he’s there.

He asks for so little, you’ll probably only remember he’s there when you try to pull your blanket up and realize it’s pinned beneath an enormous, peacefully snoring man.

This guy deserves it all. The soft bed, the forehead kisses, the family who falls completely in love with his slow, sweet ways. Nine years old does not mean he deserves any less of a beginning with someone.

He is so perfectly Solomon. Please help us find the people who will give him this chance. Share him. Tag someone who loves the big, gentle seniors. His family could be one post away.

Apply at www.dtranimalfoundation.com under Adopt.

Solomon is located in Manteno, IL. Adoptions are by appointment only. Please read his full bio and adoption information on our website before applying. We do not hold dogs or provide transportation.

We do not respond to adoption inquiries through DMs.