AKC Miniature American Shepherd Rescue

Searching for a new family member? Consider taking in a Miniature American Shepherd in need!

The Miniature American Shepherd Club of the USA is committed to helping Miniature American Shepherd (MAS) dogs in need find homes. Despite our commitment to ensuring that members’ puppies and dogs be surrendered back to their breeders in the event of an emergency or hardship, there are many MAS who find themselves in shelters or rescues due to the rising number of disreputable breeders of MAS.

MASCUSA proudly supports responsible rescues who have proven their commitment to finding new homes for dogs in need, including MAS. We are committed to aiding them in whatever way we are able. If you are also interested in supporting one of these rescues financially, you can make a tax-deductible donation on each of their organization websites, linked below.

If you find yourself with a MAS who you can no longer keep for any reason, consider reaching out to your breeder first, then follow up with these rescues and resources.

We seek to provide up-to-date information, yet circumstances may change and we encourage each person to research with due diligence. Available MAS may be posted on websites, Petfinder, Adopt-A-Pet, RescueMe, Facebook, and more. Please carefully read the description of the dog you are interested in and what they need to ensure your home is their best, and final, home.

Typical process of adopting from a responsible rescue:

1. All adoptable dogs are fully vaccinated, spayed/neutered, and microchipped.
2. The rescue requires an application and possibly veterinary and personal references.
3. There is an interview and/or meet & greet process to ensure the dog is the best fit for the home and vice versa.
4. There may be a home visit required.
5. There is an adoption agreement and adoption fee. This agreement should include a clause that states that if for any reason, you are no longer able to care for the dog, it is required to be returned to the rescue.

Thank you for considering a Miniature American Shepherd for your heart and home!

Surrendering a Miniature American Shepherd

Typical process of surrendering your MAS to a rescue or shelter:

1. Initial inquiry to their contact page, phone call, or email describing your dog. The more information you can provide, the better, including a description of their personality and typical behaviors, likes and dislikes, vet records, health issues, habits, etc.
   * Keep in mind, many rescues are run by few paid staff and many volunteers, and they receive many inquiries for owner surrenders every day. Be patient, kind, and if a rescue is unable to take in your dog, ask them for assistance or suggestions for other options.
2. Many rescues or animal shelters will require you to set an appointment to bring your dog to a meeting location. This will allow them to assess your dog and review their history with you.
3. Some rescues may require a small fee for surrendering your dog in order to assist with the initial cost of vetting and feeding.
4. It may be hours or weeks before a rescue is able to find a good foster placement or spot for your dog, depending on the number of dogs already in their care and the number of foster homes available. If you are in an emergency situation, communicate that. Otherwise, attempt to plan accordingly.
5. Due to the liability, many rescues are unable to take dogs who have bite histories or severe behavioral challenges that require significant amounts of skills or training to manage. Please understand this and be honest.

Report a Miniature American Shepherd in Need

Do you know of a MAS in need? We can help here too! Our volunteers patrol internet listings such as Petfinder for MAS who need help. We also have a good network of contacts with local area shelters in case a MAS is surrendered directly to them. If you know of a MAS that needs assistance, please contact the closest rescue organization in your region or our National Rescue Coordinator. We are always ready to spring into action to help our beloved dogs!

MAS Safety Net Volunteers Needed

We maintain a confidential list of individuals willing to foster, transport, or assist Miniature American Shepherds in unexpected situations. Coordinated by our National Rescue Coordinator. Volunteers act independently.

Interested in being a part of our breed’s safety net? Please contact Dawn Knapp, MASCUSA National Rescue Coordinator.

Grant Application

Are you actively helping MAS in need? Please fill out the Request For Funding form and provide the requested documentation.

If you have any questions, please contact Dawn Knapp, MASCUSA National Rescue Coordinator.