A Guide on Where to Adopt Dogs in Ottawa for a Seamless Matchmaking Process
I’ve always seen adopting a dog as more than just bringing home a pet. It’s about inviting a new family member into your life.
If you’re reading this, you’re probably feeling the tug of companionship but unsure where to start your search for the right adoption center.
You’re not alone. It can feel overwhelming, especially when you want to ensure you find a place that matches your needs and values.
But here’s the good news: I’ve scoured the options on where to adopt dogs in Ottawa to help you find the perfect furbaby. By the time you finish this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to find a place that feels like the right fit.
1. Ottawa Humane Society
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Website: https://ottawahumane.ca/
Adoption Center Location: 2245 West Hunt Club Rd
Contact Details: (613) 725-3166
Adoption Fees:
- Puppies (up to 6 months): $430
- Adults (7 months to 7 years): $370
- Senior Dogs (8 years and older): $180
Business Hours:
- Mon: Closed
- Tue to Fri: 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
- Sat to Sun: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Founded in 1888, the Ottawa Humane Society perfected the art of caring for pets. They do everything from rescuing abandoned animals to finding them forever homes.
Walking through their facility, you can feel the love and dedication. This manifestation guarantees that every pet is treated like royalty.
They go beyond adoptions, also offering medical care, education programs, and even pet food banks for needy families.
As for the adoption process, they make it super easy. The dedicated staff offers their 100% commitment to guiding every potential adopter to finding the perfect match.
Pro tip:
Before heading to the Ottawa Humane Society, sneak at their website to scout the available animals and breeze through the adoption application online.
2. Homes for Paws Dog Rescue
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Website: https://homesforpawsdogrescue.com/
Adoption Center Location: Foster-based, no physical shelter
Contact Details: [email protected]
Adoption Fees:
- Puppies (up to 12 months): $750
- Young Adults (1 to 3 years): $650
- Adults (3 to 7 years): $550
- Seniors (8+ years): $400
Business Hours: By appointment only
Homes for Paws Dog Rescue is dedicated to giving dogs from high-kill shelters a fresh start. The volunteers at this organization act as matchmakers for pups. They guarantee that each one finds the perfect forever home.
But they don’t just place dogs anywhere. Instead, they take the time to match them with families that align with their unique personalities and quirks. After all, it’s all about forging that perfect connection.
In fact, their transformation stories are the real showstoppers. To date, over 350 dogs have been saved and adopted.
But they go even further. After adoption, Homes for Paws Dog Rescue offers advice and support. This promises that each new family has the resources they need for a smooth transition.
Pro tip:
Homes for Paws knows their dogs inside out, so ask about their habits and mannerisms. It’ll help you set up a comfy space for your new furry friend from day one.
3. Freedom Dog Rescue
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Website: https://freedomdogrescue.ca/home
Adoption Center Location: Foster-based, no physical shelter
Contact Details: [email protected]
Adoption Fees: Varies by dog
Business Hours: By appointment only
When you’re thinking of a group of awesome people who’ve made it their mission to give dogs a fresh start, that’s Freedom Dog Rescue.
Brigitte Larsen, the foster director and co-founder, is deeply passionate about every aspect of the rescue world.
But behind Freedom Dog Rescue is a collaborative effort. There is a passionate team of fosters and volunteers with one goal: to save pups from high-kill shelters and offer them a second chance in life.
Speaking of second chances, Freedom Dog Rescue guarantees every dog gets top-notch care and medical treatments through their palliative care program.
By the time these dogs find their forever homes, they are spayed or neutered and in excellent health.
Pro tip:
Stay glued to Freedom Dog Rescue’s website and social media for the latest pups up for adoption.
4. Ottawa Dog Rescue
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Website: https://otowndogrescue.com/
Adoption Center Location: Foster-based, no physical shelter
Contact Details: [email protected]
Adoption Fees: Varies by dog
Business Hours: By appointment only
Founded in August 2013, Ottawa Dog Rescue is an all-breed, foster-based organization located in the nation’s capital. Since then, they’ve recorded over 1500 adoptions.
All thanks to their dedicated team of experienced rescuers and passionate dog lovers who are devoted to helping abandoned, abused, and surrendered dogs find their ideal forever homes.
Ottawa Dog Rescue has dogs available for adoption at various times throughout the year. Some of these are 5 to 6-year-old mixed breeds. Sometimes, available dogs are 2 years and below.
Like any other adoption center, the adoption process here involves completing a series of assessments to ensure the best match for the dog and the potential owner.
Pro tip:
Try out Ottawa Dog Rescue’s foster-to-adopt program. It’s like a trial run to see if your new pup is the perfect match before sealing the deal!
5. Rocky Road Rescue
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Website: https://rockyroadrescue.com/
Adoption Center Location: Operates mainly through foster homes
Contact Details: [email protected]
Adoption Fees:
- Adults: $750
- Puppies: $950
Business Hours: By appointment only
Rocky Road Rescue is a volunteer-driven, non-profit organization committed to rescuing dogs of all breeds.
As a foster-based rescue, they depend entirely on volunteers who selflessly dedicate their time and effort outside of their work and family responsibilities to care for the animals.
These volunteers provide temporary homes where the dogs receive love, attention, and any necessary medical or behavioral support until they are ready to be adopted.
The organization operates entirely on funds raised through community events and fundraisers. Every dollar contributed goes directly toward essentials, such as food, veterinary care, and other operational costs.
Adoption fees play a crucial role in covering the wide range of care each dog receives. This includes microchipping, age-appropriate vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and addressing any pre-existing medical issues.
Pro tip:
Don’t rush the adoption process. Spend time visiting the dog multiple times if you can to help both of you build a bond.
6. It Takes A Village Dog Rescue
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Website: https://www.ittakesavillagedogrescue.com/
Adoption Center Location: Operates mainly through foster homes
Contact Details: [email protected]
Adoption Fees: :
- Puppies (0 to 3 months): $800
- Puppies (4 to 12 months): $800
- Adults (5 to 9 years): $500 to $700
Business Hours: By appointment only
Established in December 2021, It Takes A Village Dog Rescue emerged from the shared passion of three dedicated individuals—each united by their profound love for dogs.
This center focuses on the overpopulation crisis across communities in Canada, a problem that has left countless dogs abandoned, lost, or mistreated.
They collaborate with several long-standing volunteer groups that have been working to address this issue for years, such as Sash-Mar Helping Northern Dogs, Flights for Hope, and Save a Dog Network.
If you decide to adopt a dog from here, you’ll be asked to pay an adoption fee, which plays a crucial role in sustaining their efforts.
These fees cover the costs of essential medical care, such as vaccinations to ensure each dog is disease-free before finding their forever home.
Pro tip:
Involve other pets and family members in the adoption process by arranging introductions in a neutral space. This collaborative approach fosters positive relationships.
7. Paws for Cause Animal Rescue
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Website: https://www.pawswacause.com/
Adoption Center Location: Operates mainly through foster homes
Contact Details: [email protected]
Adoption Fees:
- Puppies (up to 12 months): $600
- Adults (1 to 7 years): $550
- Senior Dogs (8+ years): $475
Business Hours: By appointment only
Paws for Cause Animal Rescue is a dedicated non-profit organization. They are primarily operated by volunteers with a focus on assisting animals.
Co-founders Marie and Tessa bring a wealth of experience, having volunteered across various shelters and sanctuaries. Their extensive knowledge is invaluable as they work diligently behind the scenes.
A key part of their mission involves collaboration with international partners, such as the Soi Dog Foundation in Thailand and Save Korean Dogs in Korea, both of which share a common goal: to rehome vulnerable dogs.
Behind all these efforts is a devoted team determined to various aspects of animal welfare, including rescue, rehabilitation, adoption, advocacy, and education.
Pro tip:
Don’t hesitate to ask the volunteers and staff about the animals’ behaviors, needs, and any special requirements. They can provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.
8. Sit With Me Rescue
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Website: https://www.sitwithme.ca/
Adoption Center Location: Operates mainly through foster homes
Contact Details: [email protected]
Adoption Fees: Varies by dog
Business Hours: By appointment only
At Sit With Me Rescue, the focus is on giving every dog a new beginning, no matter their background.
This organization is persistent in helping the most vulnerable, including those facing euthanasia due to limited shelter space, medical issues, and behavioral challenges.
They don’t shy away from dogs with tough histories or health conditions. Instead, Sit With Me seeks to provide these animals with the care, love, and attention they need in order to thrive.
Every dog that comes into their care receives the full package. This includes thorough vet care, exercise, and plenty of affection. Primarily, they are driven to ensure these dogs are offered a lifetime safety net.
Their unwavering efforts have resulted in something remarkable. Since 2012, Sit With Me has collaborated with reputable rescues to assist more than 1,000 dogs while personally caring for over 1,200.
Pro tip:
Some dogs may need a little extra help with manners. Reach out for training and behavioral support to ensure a smooth transition post-adoption.
9. Boston Terrier Rescue Canada (BTRC)
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Website: https://bostonterrierrescuecanada.com/
Adoption Center Location: Foster-based
Contact Details: 1-833-287-2364
Adoption Fees:
- Puppies (Under 1 year): $650
- Young Adults (1 to 4 years): $600
- Adults (5 to 9 years): $550
- Senior dogs (10+ years): $450
Business Hours: By appointment only
Driven by a deep love for Boston Terriers, a dedicated team of volunteers powers Boston Terrier Rescue Canada (BTRC).
For years, they’ve been known as a charity committed to giving neglected, abandoned, and surrendered Boston Terriers and their mixes a fresh start.
To achieve this mission, BTRC relies on a network of caring foster homes across the country.
In these safe and nurturing environments, the pups are welcomed with open arms, receiving essential medical care, training, and, most importantly, an abundance of love.
In addition to their compassionate care, BTRC prioritizes safety for all family members. They maintain a policy that prevents the adoption of dogs with unknown histories into homes with children under six.
Pro tip:
After adoption, keep in touch with Boston Terrier Rescue Canada. They can provide valuable resources and expert advice on training, care, and any challenges you might encounter.