MISSION STATEMENT:

Canine Castaways, Inc. is a non-profit, all volunteer organization dedicated to rescuing dogs in need, rehabilitating if necessary, and then adopting to approved homes where they will be loved as part of a family while also encouraging responsible pet care and striving to increase awareness of the consequences of pet overpopulation through educational programs and materials.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES:

RESCUE -

Work in conjunction with area animal control and welfare agencies to rescue dogs in need

Focus on dogs, primarily under 30 pounds, with no other hope

Take in owner surrendered dogs as needed to prevent euthanasia

Volunteers pick up and transport dogs

REHABILITATION -

Address behavior and training issues prior to adoption

Have all dogs checked by veterinarian for wellness, including but not limited to spay or neuter, heartworm test, update vaccinations

Help dogs with special needs such as heartworm positive, mange, diabetes

Have dog placed with a volunteer foster family while waiting to be adopted

Foster families will help work with any behavior or health issues

ADOPTION -

Require completion of adoption application with references

Volunteers to conduct a home visit and prior veterinary check of each applicant

Base adoption approvals on the needs of each individual dog and family in order to increase the likelihood of successful permanent placement

Volunteers to conduct adoptions at local pet stores, vets and groomers at least once a month

EDUCATION -

Provide educational literature at adoption events as well as other pet related events on topics such as:

Pet Overpopulation / Puppy Mills

Importance of Spaying/Neutering Pets

Responsible Pet Care

Heartworm Disease and Preventative

Animal Cruelty and Abuse

Be available to assist adopters with behavior and training issues

Inform all adopters of adjustment issues for rescued dog and new family

Recognize and help publicize ASPCA's Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month