LOOKING FOR A BEST FRIEND?
Adopt a Rescue
The best ones are the ones in need
Our rescued dogs and cats are resilient, loyal, and bring you joy
When you adopt from El Refugio…your new pet will have received:
- a health evaluation, as well as treatments in the case medical problems were identified
- life-saving vaccines, flea and tick preventatives, and internal parasite medicines
- Spay or Neuter (or scheduling for when they are old enough)
Do You Want to Adopt?
Complete the Adoption Form, and we’ll contact you to get to know you, discuss next steps & help you find a furry friend.
Would You Rather Foster?
Taking care of animals in your home temporarily is one of the most impactful ways you can help dogs and cats in need.
We adopted Manuel from El Refugio in September 2023. We are obsessed with our boy! He’s the perfect fit for our family. He’s a best friend to our 2 sons, our daily walking companion, river buddy and car ride enthusiast.
We couldn’t have wished for a better dog. He’s loyal, kind, gentle, playful and such a gentleman. He’s travelled with us to Tamarindo, Liberia, San Jose, Montreal and now, despite the colder temperatures, he’s loving life in the greater Toronto area.
We’re so grateful to El Refugio for their hard work and dedication. Their care and compassion gives dogs like Manuel a second chance and a chance at a loving family.
Leigh, Canada
About Dog Vaccinations
Dogs receive rabies vaccines and “multi” vaccines (DHLPP) that protect them against distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza.
We provide the first set, and suggest you check with your veterinarian to schedule the next vaccines at the recommended date.
About Cat Vaccinations
Cats receive rabies vaccines and “multi” vaccines (FVRCP) check this is up to date that protect against rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia (feline distemper).
We provide the first set, and suggest you check with your veterinarian to schedule the next vaccines at the recommended date.
The cat you adopt may or may not have been vaccinated for FeLV (feline leukemia). We can discuss and make a recommendation based on your situation.
Adoption DONATION
We ask for a small donation to offset some of the expenses incurred in rescuing & rehabilitating your new pet. While it does not begin to cover all of our costs it is helpful, and we greatly appreciate your support.
Each adoption includes spay/neuter and up-to-date preventative medications.
Taking Your New Dog Home
Remember to bring a collar, leash, and identification tag that includes your phone number.
Plan to keep your dog secure and safe. If you have other pets, have a plan for controlled introductions; we can advise on this.
Prepare at home:
- Food, water, and a comfortable secure place to sleep
- Inspect fencing for gaps
- Toys
Health Care:
To avoid disease and illness, keep your dogs up to date on vaccines and preventatives for fleas & ticks and internal parasites, as well as heartworm preventatives.
Taking Your New Cat Home
Bring a secure pet carrier, collar and identification tag that includes your phone number.
Plan to keep your cat secure and safe. If you have other pets, have a plan for controlled introductions; we can advise on this.
Prepare at home:
- Litter box, litter, & scoop
- Food, water, and a comfortable secure place to sleep
- Scratching pads & posts
- Toys
Health Care:
To avoid disease and illness, keep your cats up to date on vaccines and preventatives for fleas & ticks and internal parasites.
3 Days
The beginning days are crucial for your new pet to adjust to their new home. Providing a safe, secure space, avoiding overstimulation, and allowing the animal time to settle will help them adjust to their new environment.
3 Weeks
In these weeks, your pet will explore their new surroundings, learn routines, and begin to trust you and your family. This is also a time when behavioral issues might emerge, for which consistent routines and positive reinforcement are important.
3 Months
In the first three months, your pet will settle into your home, bond with you, and become secure in their new life. Continued training, socializing, and quality time spent together will foster friendship and loyalty.
Bring joy to your life and make the difference for a soul that needs you
start the ball rolling…
