Dog Rescue Newcastle

About the shelter

Operating in the areas of Newcastle, Hunter Valley, Central Coast, Port Stephens, Taree, and Mudgee in New South Wales, Dog Rescue Newcastle (DRN) has rehomed close to 7,000 companion animals since its establishment in May 2008. Founded by Sue Barker and Anne Ward, the rescue started out helping both dogs and cats in need. Whilst Anne is now devoted to the rescue of cats through Cat Rescue Newcastle (now an independent group), Sue serves as the DRN’s president and spends all of her time saving the lives of hundreds of abandoned dogs every year. As president, Sue manages the extensive network of over 150 carers and hundreds of volunteers. Her dedication and decades of experience in dog rescue had earned her a nomination of “Hunter Hero of the Year” for 2013 by the readers of the local newspaper, Newcastle Herald.

As a friendly group of concerned volunteers dedicated to the rescue of dogs that have been abandoned, surrendered, neglected, abused, or are on death row, the organisation rescues dogs from various situations and places them in loving foster homes until a permanent home can be found for them. Dog Rescue Newcastle rescues dogs of all breeds and ages from council pounds such as the Port Stephens Pound, Wyong Pound, Singleton Pound, Muswellbrook Pounds, as well as the RSPCA at Rutherford. 

Since they are a volunteer-based organisation, Dog Rescue Newcastle does not have a kennel facility and all of the animals they rescue are put into foster homes until they are adopted—no matter how long it may take. Foster caring through the organisation is a relatively straightforward process. All they ask is that foster carers provide a fully fenced yard with some shade as well as the time and effort to care for the dog in need. DRN will provide veterinary care, medication, food, flea and worm treatment, bedding, collars and leads.

People interested in adopting any of DRN’s rescue dogs are asked to look through the available pet listing on their Our Available Dogs Page, then fill out the online adoption questionnaire. The foster carer will then get in touch to arrange a “meet and greet” between the potential adopter and pet. Should this go well, a property check will be arranged to check the adopter’s premises for suitability. When everything checks out, the potential adopter will then be asked to pick up their new companion, sign the adoption agreement, sign a NSW Companion Animals Register-Change of Owner/Details form, and pay for the adoption fee. Then, the two-week trial period will commence. All adopted animals from DRN are desexed, flea and worm treated, vaccinated, microchipped, and Lifetime Registered.

Mission

• Dog Rescue Newcastle dedicates itself to the rescue of abandoned, neglected, surrendered, and abused dogs.
• The organisation rescues dogs from death row lists at local council pounds and places them in foster homes until they can find permanent homes.

How you can help

Be a pooch’s hero today! Learn how to help Dog Rescue Newcastle by visiting their Get Involved page. There are many ways you can help their organisation, and it doesn’t have to involve a lot of time or money. Help the organisation spread the word! You can download and print a variety of flyers that can be displayed in a variety of community settings. DRN welcomes volunteers, donations in cash and kind, sponsorships, and bequests.